Google is preparing Gboard for Android XR with several new interface tweaks, internally referred to as the “belka” UI.
These changes, including rounded corners, drop shadows under keys, and key-press animations, are designed to make the keyboard experience more natural in virtual environments.
The rounded corners, which might seem out of place on a traditional phone screen, are expected to look more fitting when floating in XR’s virtual space.
Additionally, a subtle drop shadow under the keys, while more noticeable in light mode, could add depth to the virtual interface.
The most intriguing addition is the key-press animations, which could provide visual feedback to users typing in XR, especially given the platform’s focus on voice input.
These animations may help users feel more connected to the virtual keyboard, signaling that their input has been successfully registered.
While these features are still in development, they hint at how Gboard will evolve to meet the unique demands of Android XR.
As the first XR hardware is set to debut in 2025, we can expect more details on how Gboard and other apps will adapt to the new platform.
