# Google’s Gboard Beta Update Brings Controversial Rounded Keys
Google’s Gboard is among the most popular keyboard applications on Android devices, delivering a dependable and feature-laden typing experience. However, a recent update in the beta version of Gboard has ignited a storm of reactions from users, as Google has subtly made a significant design alteration—transitioning from conventional square keys to rounded ones.
## The Updated Appearance: Rounded Keys
In the most recent Gboard beta update (v15.1.05.726012951-beta-arm64-v8a), Google has substituted the long-held square keys with circular variations. This change is especially evident across various layouts:
– **Four-row layout**: Keys now take on a pill-like shape.
– **Five-row layout (with number row activated)**: Keys are entirely circular, which gives them a more compact look.
While certain users embrace the updated aesthetic, others express annoyance at the abrupt change, contending that it interferes with their typing experience.
## User Feedback: A Split Reaction
The update has resulted in a variety of responses from beta testers. Some users enjoy the updated design, whereas others are displeased with both the visual change and its effect on typing precision.
### **Visual Discontent**
Numerous users have flocked to online platforms such as Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) to voice their displeasure. The main grievance is that the rounded keys appear unfamiliar and unwarranted. Some users feel as though this modification was imposed on them without prior warning or an option to revert back to the old design.
For those who are not fond of the new appearance, there is a temporary workaround:
– **Disabling key borders** in Gboard’s Themes menu may lessen the visibility of the change.
### **Typing Precision Challenges**
In addition to the visual aspects, the update has also marginally adjusted key placement. This has generated complaints from users who depend on muscle memory for quick and precise typing. Even minor shifts in key arrangement can lead to frequent errors, causing frustration among those who have utilized Gboard for years.
## The Beta Quandary: Joining Without Awareness
A significant issue surrounding this update is that many users may have overlooked the fact that they had enrolled in the Gboard beta program. Google facilitates easy enrollment in beta programs but fails to provide a straightforward method to monitor or exit them. The Play Store currently does not feature a centralized compilation of beta applications, which means some users could have been receiving beta updates for an extended period without realizing it—until a substantial change like this manifests.
## How to Revert to the Former Gboard Design
If you are dissatisfied with the rounded keys and wish to revert to the earlier version of Gboard, follow these steps:
1. **Exit the Gboard Beta Program**
– Launch the **Google Play Store**.
– Search for **Gboard** and access its listing.
– Scroll down and select **Leave Beta Program** (if it’s an option).
2. **Uninstall and Reinstall Gboard**
– After exiting the beta, remove Gboard from your device.
– Reinstall it from the Play Store to obtain the latest stable iteration.
3. **Disable Automatic Updates (Optional)**
– To avoid future unwanted changes, you can disable automatic updates for Gboard in the Play Store settings.
## What Lies Ahead?
Given that this update is still in the beta stage, it is not yet available to all users. Nevertheless, unless Google opts to pivot, the rounded keys will likely be integrated into the stable version of Gboard soon.
For users who are strongly averse to this change, alternative keyboard applications like **SwiftKey, Fleksy, or OpenBoard** could be worth considering.
## Closing Thoughts
While some users may ultimately adjust to the new design, the controversy underscores a more significant issue with software updates—unexpected modifications can disrupt user experience, particularly when they impact an essential function like typing. Whether Google will respond to the backlash remains uncertain, but for now, Gboard users must choose: accept the rounded keys or seek a way to opt-out.
What are your thoughts on the new Gboard design? Share your opinions in the comments!
