Swype may have just gained new split and mini keyboard options, but the SwiftKey folks have been sitting on something even more visionary for quite a while now. Their "Layouts for Living" program adds many layout options - split keyboards, movable pop-up keyboards, etc. - to what is already one of the most popular Android keyboards out there.

The video above highlights thumb, compact, and full layout options. Since all three options are movable, they each make it easier to type one-handed, with two thumbs, or with the device resting in your lap. The idea is that the keyboard not only molds to your device, it molds to your position. After all, we don't always hold a device the same way twice.

The new layouts steal the show, but they are not all that's changed in the latest release. SwiftKey has gained a new theme, new arrow key and numpad options, and more.

What's new:

  • Multiple layouts for easy typing on all screen sizes
  • Innovative keyboard layouts and modes for a better experience for all users across all screen sizes
  • Full keyboard including Extended layout for tablets, Thumb keyboard for two-handed typing and Compact layouts for one-handed use
  • All three layouts can be resized and undocked so you can choose their position on the screen
  • Canadian English language model
  • Choose from 5 sizes to get your keyboard the perfect size for you
  • Undock your keyboard and position it where you choose on your screen
  • Rearranged and optimized secondary (123) and tertiary (symbols) layout, based on extensive user testing
  • A new theme: previously SwiftKey and SwiftKey Tablet had two different themes called “Dark”. Both are now available on phones and tablets, with the tablet “Dark” renamed as “Forest”
  • Extended layout for tablets, including left and right cursor keys
  • All 4 cursor keys (up, down, left, right) are now available on the secondary (123) layout on tablets – phone users can still choose to have cursor keys on the main layout
  • 10-inch tablets can choose to have a central numpad in the thumb layout in landscape
  • Combined phone and tablet app to give a seamless experience across all device sizes

If the traditional virtual keyboard just doesn't work for you, now's a good time to hit up the Play Store. Your options have seemingly doubled overnight.

Microsoft SwiftKey Keyboard Developer: SwiftKey
Price: Free
4.1
Download

Source: SwiftKey