Google made a lot of folks happy yesterday by launching the awesome Android 4.2 keyboard, with gesture typing et al., on the Play Store as a download available to all Android 4.0+ users without needing a Nexus device. But as always, there was something that also put off a lot of people – the keyboard is currently restricted to only English-speaking locales, or in simpler words, it can’t be downloaded by everyone just yet.
Of course, you don’t need to shake your head in disappointment, as you can download the keyboard’s APK file and install it manually, after which you’ll be able to get future updates directly from the Play Store. However, keep in mind that you won’t be able to swipe to type for any non-English language right now, as the keyboard doesn’t support them, but Google has promised to add more languages soon.
So, hit the download link below to grab the APK file for the Google keyboard. A step-by-step guide follows just after for those who need help with manual installation.
Download Link (com.google.android.inputmethod.latin-1.0.1869.683049.apk, 15MB)
P.S: Don’t forget to check out our tip on how you can enable a PC keyboard layout on Google’s keyboard here.
Installation Procedure
- Download the APK file using the download link above. If you are using a download manager on your PC, the file may have downloaded as a zip file. In that case, rename it to .APK from .zip after downloading.
- Transfer the APK to your device.
- You’ll need a file manager to access your storage and the APK files. ES File Explorer is a good free option.
- Enable manual installation of apps by checking the Unknown sources option in Settings » Security on your device.
- Open the file manager, browse to where you copied the APK.
- Tap on the file to start installation, keep clicking Next and then Install to begin installation.
- That’s it, you now have the Android 4.2 keyboard on your phone/tablet. Enjoy the better typing experience.
