WhatsApp It has become the world's leading messaging tool, and as such, the user experience depends largely on the keyboard you choose to use to type your messages. Change the keyboard in WhatsApp It can give you more convenience, more features, quick access to emojis, swipe typing, or even specialized keyboards for different languages ​​or accessibility needs. Below, you'll find a complete and up-to-date guide on how to use your keyboard. how to change whatsapp keyboard On Android and iOS, what options you have in the app store, the advantages of each keyboard, how to configure the language, and useful tips to get the most out of your messaging experience.
Why change the keyboard in WhatsApp?
The possibility of choose the virtual keyboard in WhatsApp It gives you access to new ways to write, customization, improved autocorrect, increased privacy, and additional features like GIF creation, keyboard-based search, and multilingual typing. It can also be essential for those who want to have keyboards adapted to special needs such as large keyboards, virtual Braille keyboards, or keyboards with shortcuts for emojis and stickers.
Previous step: choose and download a new keyboard on your mobile
El First step to change the keyboard in WhatsApp It's all about choosing the keyboard app that best suits your preferences. There's a wide variety on the Android Play Store and the iOS App Store, each with unique features and functions.
Some of the most highly rated and reliable keyboard options today are:
- Gboard (Google's own): smart autocorrect, built-in search, voice typing, customizable themes, and emojis.
- Swiftkey (from Microsoft): stands out for its advanced prediction, autocorrect, multilingual support, and theme customization options.
- Samsung keyboard: Native Samsung keyboard with advanced features, customizable, and quick access to emojis and stickers.
- Fleksy: Known for its speed, shortcuts, and many extensions.
- typewise: Hexagonal design to minimize typing errors and highlighted privacy features.
- Minuum, Chrooma, Ginger, Go Keyboard and others: offer customization, language and design options for all tastes.
To install a new one, simply go to your mobile phone's app store, find the keyboard you prefer, download it, and install it. Many keyboards will guide you through a wizard after installation to activate and configure them.
How to change the keyboard in WhatsApp for Android step by step
On Android, the keyboard you choose will be applied to all mobile applications, not just WhatsApp. The process is simple, and depending on your smartphone's customization level, the names of the options may vary slightly, but the basic steps are as follows:
- Open the adjustments from your Android device.
- Search and enter System. On some mobile phones you can call directly Languages ​​and text input.
- Choose the option Languages ​​and text input o Virtual keyboard.
- You'll see a list of available keyboards, both the pre-installed one and any new ones you've installed. Tap Manage keyboards to activate or deactivate them.
- Select the keyboard you want as your default. You can activate several at once and switch between them while typing using the space bar or the keyboard icon.
When you return to WhatsApp and open a conversation, your new keyboard will already be up and running. If you have multiple keyboards active, you can switch between them by tapping the keyboard icon (usually next to the space bar) or by holding down the space bar to bring up the keyboard switcher.
How to change the keyboard in WhatsApp while typing
Android allows you to quickly switch the keyboard without leaving WhatsApp:
- Click the keyboard (or globe) icon on the keyboard itself and choose the desired keyboard.
- On some keyboards, like Gboard or Swiftkey, you can switch languages ​​or keyboards by holding down the space bar.
- This way, you can have multiple keyboards available and easily switch between them.
Change the keyboard in WhatsApp for iPhone (iOS)
On iOS, you can also install different keyboards from the App Store. The procedure to activate and change the keyboard is as follows:
- Download your desired keyboard from the App Store (e.g., Gboard or Swiftkey).
- Go to Settings from your iPhone.
- Sign in General and select Keyboard.
- Press on Keyboards and later Add new keyboard.
- Select the keyboard you just installed and, if necessary, activate the option Allow full access to take advantage of all the features.
- Open WhatsApp and access any conversation. When the keyboard appears, tap the globe icon or tap and hold to choose from installed keyboards.
Customization and extra features of modern keyboards
Today's keyboards go far beyond simple alphanumeric typing. Some of the advanced functions that you can find are:
- Keyboards with smart prediction and contextualized self-correction.
- Swipe writing (Swipe) that allows you to type faster with just a swipe of your finger.
- Customizing themes, colors, fonts and key sizes.
- Support for multiple languages and quick switching between them.
- Integration of emojis, GIFs, stickers, and direct access to search engines.
- Floating keyboard modes, split keyboard (especially useful on tablets), and large-print keyboards for accessibility.
- Specialized keyboards such as virtual Braille keyboard for people with visual impairment.
- Secure, privacy-focused keyboards that don't store what you type.
Top recommended keyboards for WhatsApp
Gboard (Google Keyboard)
Ideal for those looking for integration with Google services, excellent predictions, integrated search, and complete customization. It's one of the most widely used and is compatible with both Android and iOS.
Swiftkey
It is characterized by multilingual prediction Very advanced, with design customization, emoji support, stickers, and cloud syncing. It comes pre-installed on some devices and is ideal for those who write in multiple languages.
Fleksy
Known for its speed and precision, it lets you download extensions, customize the look, and add a large repertoire of GIFs and stickers. Highly appreciated by those looking for a unique and fun keyboard.
Samsung keyboard
The native keyboard on Samsung phones is very comprehensive, featuring advanced prediction, customization, and integration with the system's emoji and sticker gallery. It's a solid option for Samsung users who don't want to install additional apps.
typewise
It stands out for its hexagonal design that minimizes typing errors, privacy protection, and advanced customization options. It's ideal for those who type a lot and seek efficiency.
Adaptive keyboards: Braille, large print, and accessibility
For users with special needs, there are virtual Braille keyboards, keyboards with extra-large letters, or high-visibility keyboards. Many can be downloaded for free and configured for use with WhatsApp. Some examples include Google braille virtual keyboard and other keyboards aimed at people with reduced vision.
How to change the keyboard language in WhatsApp
In many cases, rather than changing the keyboard, what is sought is change language to type on WhatsApp. On both Android and iOS, you can easily add new languages ​​to the keyboard:
- Access your keyboard settings (for example, Gboard or Swiftkey usually have it in the top bar of the keyboard itself).
- Choose Languages o Add language.
- Select the language you want to add.
- From the keyboard itself, you can switch between installed languages ​​by pressing the space bar or the globe icon.
This is useful for those who frequently type in multiple languages ​​or want to quickly change keyboard layouts (for example, from Spanish to English or French).
Risks and privacy when switching keyboards
When installing third-party keyboards, it's essential to choose recognized and official developers. Some keyboards may collect data or record what you type, so always download from trusted sources (Google Play or the App Store). Read the permissions the app requests, and if you have privacy concerns, opt for keyboards from well-known companies like Google, Microsoft, or Samsung.
How to remove, delete, or uninstall keyboards you no longer use
If you have tried several keyboards and want to leave only one as default, you can delete or disable the ones you don't need:
- On Android: Settings > System > Languages ​​& input > Virtual keyboard > Manage keyboards. Disable or uninstall any you don't use.
- On iOS: Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboards. Tap Edit and delete any extra keyboards.
This way, you'll prevent them from consuming resources, space, or unnecessarily accessing your data.
What to do if the new keyboard doesn't appear in WhatsApp?
Sometimes, after installing a keyboard and setting it as the default, it may not appear in WhatsApp. To fix this:
- Close WhatsApp and reopen it.
- Make sure the keyboard is enabled and selected as the default in your system settings.
- Uninstall and reinstall the keyboard, making sure you accept the necessary permissions.
- Restart your phone to apply the changes.
Advantages of having multiple keyboards installed
You can have multiple keyboards installed and active at the same time. This is useful for switching between different typing styles, languages, or keyboards tailored to specific situations (e.g., a split keyboard on tablets, a Braille keyboard when you need it, or emoji keyboards). Switching between them is quick, so you can adapt your experience to suit your needs.
Choosing the ideal keyboard for WhatsApp not only improves your typing speed and comfort, but also unlocks new ways to communicate through emojis, GIFs, and other advanced features. The keyboard offering is so wide that you're sure to find an option that perfectly suits your needs. By following the steps in this guide, you now have complete control over the keyboard you use in WhatsApp and the rest of your apps, ensuring an efficient, fun, and perfectly personalized experience on your phone.
