Rumor: Google is working on iOS keyboard with extended search function
Google has been working for months on a virtual keyboard for Apple’s iOS, in which various search functions such as an image finder have been incorporated. According to insiders, the keyboard also includes support for swipe gestures and should provide more search traffic.
The keyboard should distinguish itself from the standard iOS keyboard with its functionality, is visually different from the Android keyboard and also offers more extensive features, The Verge reports citing sources familiar with the development. Within Google, employees have been working with the keyboard for months, but it is not clear whether, and if so when, the company will release the app.
The keyboard supports swiping over letters to type words. In addition, there would be specific buttons for searching for gif files and other images. Anyone who clicks on the Google logo can search regularly via the search engine, according to The Verge.
The keyboard should provide more search traffic through Google. Mobile search traffic is less lucrative for Google than desktop, making it important for the company to grow mobile searches.
Android 6.0 Lollipop Keyboard