For many Android users, the assumption that their devices are secure and their data is private is being seriously challenged. Recent revelations have shaken this trust, particularly concerning the tools we use every day.
The Privacy Problem with Default Keyboards
A growing concern among privacy advocates is the data collection practices of major tech companies, even within supposedly private modes. Google has been found to collect user data during incognito browsing sessions, raising a critical question: how can we trust other integrated services like Gboard? Despite Gboard offering its own incognito mode, a significant trust deficit remains for many security-conscious individuals. When your keyboard connects to the internet, every keystroke becomes a potential data point.
Top Privacy-Centric Keyboard Alternatives
If you are rethinking your keyboard choice, here are four excellent open-source alternatives that operate locally on your device, ensuring your typing data never leaves your phone.
AnySoftKeyboard
AnySoftKeyboard is a longstanding favourite in the world of private typing. Its biggest advantage is that it does not require an internet connection. This means you can be completely sure that your keystrokes, including sensitive passwords and personal messages, are not being collected or sent to remote servers. The app is feature-rich, offering gesture typing, a variety of custom themes, and robust multi-language support. You can also finely adjust its autocorrect and word suggestion features to match your personal typing style.
OpenBoard
For users who prefer a clean and minimalistic design, OpenBoard is one of the most popular Gboard replacements. It places user privacy at the very core of its functionality. The app requests no unnecessary permissions and has a strict policy against harvesting any user data. Its settings are straightforward to navigate. A key security feature is that all your keystrokes are protected with end-to-end encryption, providing a strong guarantee that your privacy remains intact.
FlorisBoard
FlorisBoard represents an ambitious and modern keyboard project built with privacy as a foundational principle. This open-source keyboard operates entirely offline and supports theming and gesture typing. It is under active development, with regular updates adding new features and improvements. While advanced features like spell check and predictive text are still being refined, the current version is stable and perfect for users seeking a fresh, privacy-focused typing experience. Note that FlorisBoard is not available on the Google Play Store but can be easily downloaded from F-Droid or its official GitHub page.
Simple Keyboard
As the name implies, Simple Keyboard is for those who want just the essentials. It strips away all the bells and whistles, offering a reliable and purely private typing interface. The app does not request any network access permissions and does not store personal data. This makes it an ideal choice if your primary goal is to avoid feature clutter and maintain a lean, secure device. Customisation is mostly limited to adjusting the layout and themes, keeping the experience straightforward and uncomplicated.
Taking Control of Your Digital Privacy
The availability of these robust alternatives highlights a crucial step users can take towards securing their personal information. By choosing a keyboard that functions locally and is built on transparent, open-source code, you actively prevent your typing habits from becoming part of a data profile. Moving away from data-harvesting default apps to these privacy-first options empowers you to reclaim control over your digital footprint on your Android device.
