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To switch between Unexpected Keyboard and Gboard, enable both in Android’s keyboard settings, open a text field, then select the keyboard you want from the system keyboard picker. The picker may appear as a keyboard or globe icon; on some devices you can open it by touching and holding the globe key.
Enable Unexpected Keyboard and Gboard
Android can switch only between input methods that are installed and enabled. Install either app if it is missing: Unexpected Keyboard is an Android virtual keyboard, and Google says Gboard can be installed and set up (it is already the default on some devices).
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- Open Android Settings and search for keyboard if you cannot find the relevant menu.
- Open the on-screen or virtual keyboard settings, or the keyboard-management screen. Google documents this path on supported devices: System > Keyboard > On-screen keyboard.
- Turn on both Unexpected Keyboard and Gboard.
Menu names and locations vary with Android version and manufacturer software, so the Google path may not match your device. Searching Settings for “on-screen keyboard,” “virtual keyboard,” or “manage keyboards” can help locate the equivalent screen. Google advises checking the device manufacturer when instructions do not fit a customized Android version: Gboard setup help.
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Choose which keyboard to use while typing
- Open an app and tap a text field to bring up the keyboard.
- Tap the keyboard or globe switch icon if it is visible. On supported layouts, touch and hold the globe key to open the input-method choices.
- Select Unexpected Keyboard or Gboard.
Google documents switching back to Gboard by opening a text field, touching and holding the Globe key, then tapping Gboard: Fix problems with Gboard. Android may also show its keyboard picker through a system keyboard icon or notification, depending on the device. The picker’s appearance and location are not identical on every Android phone.
#1 Best Overall
- Excellent Compatibility: The Bluetooth keyboard compatible with iOS, Android and iPad OS system. It is perfect for Apple iPhone, iPad, iPad Mini, iPad Pro, iPad Air, Android Samsung LG tablet smartphone cell phone.
- Light portable and compact: This keyboard is much lighter, smaller than traditional keyboard. You can easily carry it without taking up more space on your desk or bag. 10 inch keyboard dimensions: 25 x 15 x 0.6 cm, weight: 180g. 【Size: 9.84 x 5.9 x 0.24 inch, weight: 6.35ounce/0.4pounds】
- Long-term use: Built-in rechargeable lithium battery, after fully charged, it can be used for more than 20 days (When used continuously for 2 hours a day). If you don't use it for more than 10 minutes, the keyboard will automatically enter the sleep state to save power. If you want to continue to use it, just click any key to wake up the keyboard.
- Comfortable Bluetooth Keyboard: The keys of the keyboard are scissor structure, square chocolate keycap design. Use this keyboard, you can type quietly on your tablet, iPad, iPhone, smartphone and provide you with a comfortable and pleasant typing experience.
- Bluetooth Connection: The keyboard adopts stable Bluetooth technology, the working distance is up to 10m. The keyboard is US QWERTY layout, easy to use, has hot keys, such as volume control, play and pause, previous and next etc. The front is brushed, the back is ultra-thin and smooth aluminum alloy design.
If one keyboard is missing from the picker
- Check that it is enabled. Return to Settings and confirm both input methods are switched on in keyboard management.
- Check that it is installed. If the app is absent, install it before looking for it in the picker.
- Open a text field first. The keyboard selection control is generally available when an on-screen keyboard is active.
- Search Settings using alternate labels. Try “keyboard,” “on-screen keyboard,” “virtual keyboard,” or “manage keyboards,” since menu wording varies.
Android’s built-in picker is usually enough; F-Droid describes the separate Keyboard Switcher utility as optional and potentially unnecessary when the built-in route works. It is a fallback to consider only if your device does not offer a convenient system control.
Keyboard switching is not language switching
Gboard’s space-bar gesture can change the active language among languages configured in Gboard. That changes the language layout, not the keyboard app, so it does not select Unexpected Keyboard. Use Android’s input-method picker to switch between the two apps. Google explains its language controls in Use your keyboard.
Rank #2
- Pocket-Sized Everyday Carry Design: Ultra-compact two-fold bluetooth keyboard at just 7.8 oz folds into a small form with premium PU leather cover, making it the lightweight travel companion for typing anywhere
- Specifically for Phones and Tablets: Compact keyboard layout optimized for mobile devices provides physical typing capability for iPhone, iPad, and Android tablets with 10.76 x 4.07 inch unfolded size, ideal for on-the-go messaging and notes
- Bluetooth 5.1 with 33ft Range: Connect to up to 3 devices simultaneously. Switch with dedicated keys – no re-pairing, no cable juggling.(Note: Turn on power before pairing)
- PU Leather Protection: Integrated PU leather protective cover shields the keyboard from scratches while adding a premium look, letting you carry it confidently in bags or briefcases without additional cases
- USB-C Rechargeable: Recharge with the included USB-C cable and rely on auto-sleep standby up to 150 days, so the travel keyboard is ready when your work moves
Keyboard preferences are configured separately
Selecting an input method changes which app provides the keyboard; it does not merge their settings. Configure preferences in the selected keyboard’s own settings. The Unexpected Keyboard project highlights corner swipes for extra characters, while Google’s Gboard setup guide covers Gboard’s configuration.
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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →A USB or Bluetooth keyboard is not needed to change between these on-screen keyboards. Physical keyboards can affect whether the on-screen keyboard appears, which is a separate behavior described by Google’s Android accessibility help.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Support BLUETOOTH 4.0 and 2.4GHz RF Connections: No extra clutter because it has Bluetooth built in (no dongle required). Just pair the Bluetooth Keyboard with your computer and ready for use immediately.Press Fn+Tab then switch to Bluetooth mode.
- 2019 Upgraded Wireless keyboard:Bulit-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery control it in your home theater(XBMC media center) wireless remotely on your couch input the text/surf the internet/play games without several remotes make life more easier and enjoyable.
- Superior Compatibility:Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard with 2.4G dongle for fire stick new fire TV box Apple iOS iPad Pro mini 4 iPhone X Android Tablets (Galaxy Tab) Windows Mac OS 6.0 and later
- PERFECT SIZE AND RECHARGEABLE BATTERY: Convenient and lightweight pocket sized Dual mode mini wireless bluetooth keyboard perfect for gaming and travel.
- We Promise 100% satisfactory after-sales service, Up to 12-month quality guarantee and 30 days money back warranty.Package contents: Rii Mini Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard USB charging cable and 2.4G USB dongle.
Rank #4
- 【Wide Compatibility】Pocket keyboard is compatible with Android,Windows or iOS.Popular among hobbyists and developers working with Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and robot programming projects where desktop keyboards would consume valuable workspace. Note: Before pairing on iOS device, Please turn on the Assistivetouch function
- 【Mini Keyboard with Backlit】Mini backlit Keyboard has 66 keys and a white LED backlight,similar to BlackBerry phones,suitable for working in dark environments, bedside typing or emergency situations where you need to input information without disturbing others
- 【Stable Bluetooth Connection】Bluetooth keyboard adopts Bluetooth 5.0, makes the wireless keyboard can be used longer distance, faster data transmission, and more stable signal.Please charge prior to initial use to ensure connection stability
- 【Rechargeable & Portable】Mini keyboard built-in rechargeable battery eliminates frequent battery replacement. Measuring 4.1 × 2.3 × 0.4 inches,weighing merely 0.18 lbs, this wireless mini keyboard fits effortlessly into backpacks, messenger bags and travel cases for on-the-go use.Remember to charge it completely for initial use
- 【New application scenarios】Wireless bluetooth keyboard is not only compatible with smart AI glasses but can also be used for robotics and IoT development.The Bluetooth keyboard will gradually be applied to more smart scenarios such as creative workflows, presentation control and smart home device management
Rank #3
- 7-Color LED Backlit: This Bluetooth keyboard has a 7 colors backlight mode, 1 breathing light mode, and 3 brightness levels. Even in the dark, it makes your typing more easily and conveniently. You can turn the lights on/off and adjust the backlight mode by the light bulb key, and switch colors among red, yellow, purple, green, ice blue, blue, and white by the RGB key. When the keyboard is idle, the light will automatically turn off to save power.
- Broad Compatibility: Perfect for iPad A16 11th 10th 9th Gen, iPad Air Mini Pro iPhone, Android Samsung galaxy tab tablet smartphone cell phone, and so on mobile devices with built-in Bluetooth, and compatible with Android, iPad OS, iOS, etc. multiple operating systems. This Bluetooth keyboard is specially designed for small mobile devices such as tablets, smartphones. SO, NOT suitable for desktop devices such as laptops, computers, Macs, MacBooks, etc.
- Stable and Reliable Bluetooth Connection: The advanced Bluetooth technology can provide a stable reliable and powerful connection. The keyboard is easy to connect and easy to use. Don't worry about delay. The keyboard has shortcut hot keys, which makes your work easier and more efficient. Keyboard size: 9.65 x 5.91 x 0.24 inch.Weight: 6.53 ounce/0.4pounds.
- Rechargeable Battery: The Bluetooth keyboard has a built-in rechargeable battery, so there is no need to replace the battery frequently, you can use the included Type-C cable for charging. It will enter sleep mode after about 5 minutes of inactivity to save power, you can press any key to activate it and wait for 3 seconds to use it again. If not used for a long time, you can turn off the keyboard power.
- Quiet Typing and Ultra-Slim: The keyboard adopts a scissor switch structure to provide you with a quiet, sensitive and comfortable typing experience, so that you can focus on your work without worrying about disturbing others. The compact and portable design can be easily put into your bag or backpack, easy to carry, can be used at home school travel office. The back of the keyboard is aluminum alloy design, which is perfect for use with iPad/ tablet case with magnetic adsorption function.
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