Android just got a whole lot more personalized. With the latest Android 16 update, you can now create custom keyboard shortcuts. This means you can tailor your device to fit your needs, making it easier to use.
Imagine being able to open your favorite apps, take a screenshot, or switch to split-screen mode with just a few keystrokes. That’s what Android 16 offers. You can set up custom shortcuts for various system functions, like opening the app drawer, going back to the home screen, or launching Google Assistant.
To access the shortcut menu, you can go to Settings > System > Keyboard > Physical keyboard > View keyboard shortcuts. Alternatively, you can use the Gboard floating toolbar or press the “Meta + /” keys on your keyboard. From there, you can create your own custom shortcuts or modify existing ones.
Some of the customizable shortcuts include opening the Google Maps app, YouTube, or Gmail. You can also set up shortcuts for system functions like taking a screenshot, opening the settings app, or switching to split-screen mode. While not all shortcuts are customizable, this is a step in the right direction towards a more personalized Android experience.
The new feature is already available on the Pixel tablet and will roll out to other devices later this year. With Android 16, you can make your device truly yours, with custom keyboard shortcuts that fit your workflow and preferences.
How to set up custom shortcuts
To get started, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > System > Keyboard > Physical keyboard > View keyboard shortcuts
- Use the Gboard floating toolbar or press the “Meta + /” keys on your keyboard
- Create your own custom shortcuts or modify existing ones
Note that some shortcuts provided by apps like Gboard and Chrome are not yet customizable. However, this is a great start towards a more personalized Android experience.
Available custom shortcuts
Some of the customizable shortcuts include:
- Opening the app drawer
- Going back to the home screen
- Taking a screenshot
- Opening the settings app
- Launching Google Assistant
- Switching to split-screen mode
- Opening Google Maps, YouTube, or Gmail
With these custom shortcuts, you can make your Android device more efficient and tailored to your needs.