After Android, iOS devices to get Gboard's Morse code option
Months after it released the feature for Android, Google has now announced that it's bringing Morse code as an input option on Gboard for iOS devices. Google also said that it had made numerous improvements to the input method. A beta version of the Morse code input method was first integrated into Android Gboards shortly after Google's annual developers conference, I/O 2018. Here's more.
How to enable Morse code input option on Android
Android users can activate the Morse code input option by heading to Settings -> System -> Languages & input -> Virtual keyboard -> Gboard -> Languages -> English (US). Under English (US), swipe through the available layout options, and enable Morse code.
The Morse code project aims to improve accessibility
The Morse code input method is primarily aimed at improving accessibility in digital communication for people with disabilities. The project was developed in collaboration with Tania Finlayson, an assistive tech developer with cerebral palsy. Finlayson believes that the system will improve the lives of many, as it had done in her case. Additionally, once versed in Morse code, it'll enable users to type faster.
Finlayson recounts how Morse code helped her fight cerebral palsy
"First I thought learning Morse code would be a waste of time, but soon learned that it gave me total freedom with my words. School became fun, instead of exhausting. I could focus on my studies, and have real conversations with my friends," explained Finlayson.
Google has also launched a game that teaches Morse code
Obviously, not everyone is versed in Morse code, and Google took care to address this issue. The tech giant, thus, has also launched a Morse typing trainer game which, it claims, can teach users Morse code in under an hour. The game can be played both on mobile devices, and on the PC.
