How to change keyboard language on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To change the keyboard language on Android, navigate to Settings > System > Languages & Input > Virtual Keyboard > Gboard (or your chosen keyboard) > Languages. From there, you can add or select the desired language. This process allows users to type in different languages seamlessly.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before changing the keyboard language on your Android device, ensure the following:
  • •Android version: Ensure your device is running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher.
  • •Permissions: Access to device settings is required.
  • •Keyboard app: Ensure you have a compatible keyboard app installed (e.g., Gboard, SwiftKey).
  • •Backup: Consider backing up your keyboard settings if you have customized them.

Method 1: Changing Language via Settings

This method is the most straightforward way to change the keyboard language and is applicable for most Android devices.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your Android device. This can usually be found in the app drawer or by swiping down the notification shade and tapping the gear icon.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and select 'System' (or 'General Management' on some devices).
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Languages & Input'.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Virtual Keyboard' and then tap on your keyboard (e.g., 'Gboard').
  • •Step 5: Tap on 'Languages'. Here, you can see the current keyboard languages.
  • •Step 6: To add a new language, tap on 'Add Keyboard'. Choose your desired language from the list and tap 'Done'.
  • •Step 7: To switch between languages while typing, tap and hold the space bar or use the globe icon on the keyboard. Verify the language has changed by typing in the selected language.
  • •Step 8: If the language does not change, ensure that the keyboard is set to the correct language in the settings.

For Android 11 and 12

In Android 11 and 12, the steps remain largely the same, but the interface may have slight visual differences.
  • •Step 1: Access 'Settings' and navigate to 'System'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Languages & Input', then 'On-screen Keyboard'.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Gboard' and follow the same steps to add a new language.

For Android 10 and earlier

In earlier versions, the menu paths may differ slightly.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings' and select 'Language & Input'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Current Keyboard' and select 'Choose Keyboards'.
  • •Step 3: Enable the desired keyboard and follow the steps to add a new language.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Keyboard Apps

If you prefer a different keyboard experience, you can use third-party keyboard apps like SwiftKey or AnySoftKeyboard, which offer extensive language support.
  • •Step 1: Download and install the keyboard app from the Google Play Store.
  • •Step 2: Open the app and follow the setup instructions to enable it as your default keyboard.
  • •Step 3: Access the app's settings and navigate to 'Languages'.
  • •Step 4: Add your desired languages and customize the keyboard layout as needed.
  • •Step 5: Switch between languages using the app's built-in language switch feature, usually found on the keyboard or in settings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while changing the keyboard language, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Language not supported' - Solution: Ensure your keyboard app supports the selected language. Update the app if necessary.
  • •Issue: 'Keyboard not switching languages' - Fix: Check if the language is enabled in the keyboard settings and try restarting the keyboard app.
  • •Problem: 'Typing in the wrong language' - Workaround: Manually switch languages using the globe icon or space bar, and ensure the correct language is selected in the settings.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your typing experience with these advanced tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Long press the space bar - Quickly switch between languages.
  • •Hidden feature: Voice typing - Access this by tapping the microphone icon on the keyboard for hands-free typing.
  • •Customization: Explore keyboard settings for additional features like emoji support and predictive text.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For a seamless multilingual typing experience, consider using Gboard, which offers extensive language support and customization options.