How to use swipe typing on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for swipe typing on Android.

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

Quick Answer

Swipe typing on Android allows users to input text by sliding their finger across the keyboard rather than tapping individual keys. This method can significantly speed up typing and is available on most modern Android devices.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start using swipe typing on your Android device, ensure you have the following:
  • •An Android device running Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) or later.
  • •A compatible keyboard app that supports swipe typing, such as Gboard or SwiftKey.
  • •Access to the device's settings to enable swipe typing features.
  • •Sufficient battery life to avoid interruptions during setup.

Method 1: Using Gboard for Swipe Typing

Gboard is Google's official keyboard app and is widely used for swipe typing due to its accuracy and ease of use.
  • •Step 1: Download and install Gboard from the Google Play Store if it is not already installed. Open the Play Store, search for 'Gboard', and tap 'Install'.
  • •Step 2: Set Gboard as your default keyboard. Go to 'Settings' > 'System' > 'Languages & input' > 'Virtual keyboard' > 'Manage keyboards'. Toggle 'Gboard' to enable it.
  • •Step 3: Open any app that requires text input (like Messages or Notes). Tap on the text field to bring up the keyboard.
  • •Step 4: To enable swipe typing, ensure the 'Glide typing' option is activated. Go to 'Settings' > 'System' > 'Languages & input' > 'Virtual keyboard' > 'Gboard' > 'Glide typing' and toggle it on.
  • •Step 5: Start swipe typing by placing your finger on the first letter of the word, then glide your finger to the last letter without lifting it. Release your finger to input the word.
  • •Step 6: Verify that the word is correctly recognized. If it is not, you can tap the suggested word above the keyboard to select it.
  • •Step 7: If swipe typing does not work, ensure that Gboard is updated to the latest version via the Google Play Store.

For Android 11

Android 11 users may find additional features in Gboard, such as improved voice typing and emoji suggestions.
  • •Step 1: Access the Gboard settings by long-pressing the comma key on the keyboard and selecting 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Explore the 'Voice typing' option to enable voice input alongside swipe typing.

For Android 10

Android 10 users may have slightly different settings layouts but can still follow the same steps as above.
  • •Step 1: Ensure that 'Glide typing' is enabled in Gboard settings as described in the main method.
  • •Step 2: Users may need to check for system updates via 'Settings' > 'System' > 'System update' to ensure compatibility.

Method 2: Using SwiftKey for Swipe Typing

SwiftKey is another popular keyboard app that offers robust swipe typing capabilities.
  • •Step 1: Download and install SwiftKey from the Google Play Store.
  • •Step 2: Set SwiftKey as your default keyboard by going to 'Settings' > 'System' > 'Languages & input' > 'Virtual keyboard' > 'Manage keyboards'. Enable 'SwiftKey'.
  • •Step 3: Open any app that requires text input and tap on the text field to bring up the keyboard.
  • •Step 4: Ensure swipe typing is enabled by going to 'Settings' within the SwiftKey app, then 'Typing' > 'Swipe typing' and toggle it on.
  • •Step 5: Start swipe typing by gliding your finger across the keyboard from the first letter to the last letter of the word.
  • •Step 6: Check the predicted word above the keyboard and tap it to confirm if it is correct.
  • •Step 7: If you encounter issues, check for updates for SwiftKey in the Google Play Store.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If swipe typing is not functioning as expected, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Swipe typing not recognized' - Solution: Ensure 'Glide typing' or 'Swipe typing' is enabled in your keyboard settings.
  • •Issue: 'Words are not being predicted correctly' - Fix: Clear the keyboard's cache by going to 'Settings' > 'Apps' > 'Gboard' or 'SwiftKey' > 'Storage' > 'Clear Cache'.
  • •Problem: 'Keyboard not appearing' - Workaround: Restart your device and ensure the keyboard app is set as the default in 'Settings'.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your swipe typing experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Long-press the space bar - This allows you to switch between languages quickly.
  • •Command line: N/A - This is primarily a mobile feature.
  • •Hidden feature: Enable 'Personal dictionary' in Gboard settings to add frequently used words for quicker access.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best swipe typing experience, choose a keyboard app that suits your typing style and keep it updated.