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Hello everyone. I just got my Motorola Droid yesterday and I love it! However, the physical keyboard is troublesome and the on-screen keyboard isn't very accurate. I saw a video on Youtube of a guy who was able to download new keyboards. I'd like to do this.
I only have 2 questions. Will a new keyboard be more accurate than the stock one? If so, how do I go about downloading one?
Thanks a lot everyone.
blitzie said:
Will a new keyboard be more accurate than the stock one?
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try and compare
blitzie said:
If so, how do I go about downloading one?
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the most common way is via Market
Else, find an .apk file, put it to your SD card, and install via AppInstaller, ES File Explorer, etc. These apps are also available at market.
I actually couldn't find one in the market, just skins. There wasn't any way to download an actual keyboard.
For all intents and purposes, I'm stupid. I need real basic directions for this.
search for this:
Any Soft Keyboard
Better Keyboard
DrawKeyboard
ShapeWriter
SlideIT Keyboard
Smart Keyboard
Swype
TopKeyboard
TripleBoard
---
they might be unavailable @Market, so search for .apk's
and install AppInstaller from Market, it's useful
PS: never say you're stupid.
I found a few of those in the market but I didn't find them to be any better than the stock keyboard. Maybe the next update will make the keyboard more accurate or something. I can hope.
Thanks for your help.
Anyone have the Shapewriter 3.09 .apk. Can not find it in the market with 2.2
This is the stock keyboard that was included in 7/27 leak. This keyboard has the hide button removed and a bigger space bar. I did not make this keyboard (HTC did) nor can I modify it from this point in anyway. So please don't ask me to make the spacebar bigger or move it around. All I did was extract the apk and odex files from the leak, deodexed it, and then put it into an update.zip format that can be flashed in recovery.
Personally I prefer this keyboard to the official froyo keyboard, as I find the spacebar too small and the hide button is redundant as you can either long press the menu button or press the back button to hide this keyboard. Check it out, you may like it better too.
As far as I can tell this only works on Sense Roms with the Sense Keyboard
Directions:
Flash attached zip in recovery... and that's it.
awesome thanks.
Awesome...many thanks for this
how do you install this? i'm new to rooting in general. i went into the bios and installed the zip from clockwordmod . . but that had force close errors when i did that, what is the correct way to do it?
Yep...just force closes
"Results may vary."
Is there a way to have the apk file itself?
Sent from my ADR6300
Awesome work man... any chance you could make it so its the opposite.. get rid of the push to talk and replace with the hide keyboard..
i guess i'm not the only one with force closing problems? i need this keyboard back in my life!!
Could those with fc give info on their current setup?
Personally this has worked on both skyraiders, redemption, and virtuous.
MIUI on htc incredible.
any suggestions? the stock keyboard is killing me . . can't get anything right.
Sorry, as far as I can tell this will only work on a sense rom. You could try extracting the apk from the zip and installing it through astro or whatever, but I doubt that would work. The best thing would be to make it installable like the HTC_IME mod keyboard, but I wouldn't know where to start.
Here are two of the onscreen keyboards that I use on a daily basis, swype is also a great alternative but posts with swype links have been shut down by the mods so the best thing to do is to sign up for the beta program directly here or use google
Of course to install these for now you can go to the thread created by me on xda here to sideload the .apks
These are both being used currently on my 2.2.1 Rom with zero issues.
Thanks to all that have made these programs possible, we truly appreciate the hard work.
HTC_IME (My Favorite tap to type on screen keyboard)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=624416
** UPDATE: Keyboard from Android 2.3 +
http://www.appbrain.com/app/keyboard-from-android-2-3/com.moo.android.inputmethod.latin
or the try the FREE version first, info here: http://www.appbrain.com/app/keyboard-from-android-2-3/com.moo.android.inputmethod.latin.free
** UPDATE: Big Buttons Keyboard Deluxe
http://www.appbrain.com/app/big-buttons-keyboard-deluxe/com.bigbuttons.deluxe2
or the try the FREE version first, info here: http://www.appbrain.com/app/big-buttons-keyboard-standard/com.bigbuttons
Renamed Gingerbread Keyboard
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=875202
Not knowing much about these kybds, I'm curious as to whether you have a preference towards one or the other using swype? I can't use and android without it after using it on my captivate.
rwon said:
Not knowing much about these kybds, I'm curious as to whether you have a preference towards one or the other using swype? I can't use and android without it after using it on my captivate.
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Swype is nice but inputting email addresses and passwords are somewhat of a hassle.
I prefer HTC_IME as the tap to text option of the two because of the word prediction software that is always on point.
Its hard to compare swype vs. the one above because they are completely different ways of using your onscreen keyboard.
The HTC ime mod is the best. I don't like the clunky stock keyboard the inspire had. Plus the layout was shifted from other virtual keyboards. The mod keyboard give you the ability to customize so much. Including the layout.
mentalcase said:
The HTC ime mod is the best. I don't like the clunky stock keyboard the inspire had. Plus the layout was shifted from other virtual keyboards. The mod keyboard give you the ability to customize so much. Including the layout.
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Yeah, I would rather deal with the occasional hassle w/ email and passwords and text like a mad man... lol
rwon said:
Yeah, I would rather deal with the occasional hassle w/ email and passwords and text like a mad man... lol
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Well I have Swype fully working on the Inspire, installed using the Sideload Wonder Machine for Windows (Best thing since sliced bread).
Highly recommended
The gingerbread keyboard keeps force closing on me.
Sent from my Inspire 4G using XDA App
Same here, the Gingerbread KB FC's on me. I reinstalled just to be sure but it still does it. Anybody know how to fix it?
The Gingerbread KB worked fine on my HTC Dream / G1.
Thats weird, I didnt get around installing it on the Inspire yet so maybe Ill have to edit the OP and take that link to the app off if more continue to report the FC.
For those having issues just unistall it and use the other options listed please.
HTC_IME - High resolution version (Froyo/2.2)
and
Swype are the only onscreen keyboards I currently have installed as of now.
There is a gingerbread keyboardon the market
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
I just noticed that it FC's when you have different languages enabled in the settings. If you don't tinker with the settings at all (default) it will work, but I mainly write in English and Spanish and is the main reason why I installed it to begin with...
never mind it FC's as default as soon as you try to type the first letter...
trying the one on the market in a minute...
Tried the one on the market and it even has more features than the one in the forums, I highly recommend it...
swype wont install
i got the .apk for the swype installer and sideloaded it, but now, every time i run the installer it still tells me that the install is blocked...how did you guys get past that without having the ACTUAL keyboard .apk (not the installer .apk)
morganblackstone said:
i got the .apk for the swype installer and sideloaded it, but now, every time i run the installer it still tells me that the install is blocked...how did you guys get past that without having the ACTUAL keyboard .apk (not the installer .apk)
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You might want to try this app instead, unsure why you are having issues with Swype:
http://www.androidtapp.com/slideit-keyboard/
I would really like to use swype though...I appreciate the suggestion though...any ideas or does anyone need clarification of my problem?
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
morganblackstone said:
I would really like to use swype though...I appreciate the suggestion though...any ideas or does anyone need clarification of my problem?
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
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Like I said in the OP google is your friend, lol.
We cant post up swype .apks, its prohibited.
i understand that, and thats totally fine...but how the heck do i install it? i got swypeinstaller.apk to install fine. but after that it attempts to download and install the swype.apk from the server and it tries to install it, and thats where it gets blocked. so im trying to figure out how to install the swype.apk that was downloaded through the swype installer, when i cant find any temp file or anything that just says swype.apk
morganblackstone said:
i understand that, and thats totally fine...but how the heck do i install it? i got swypeinstaller.apk to install fine. but after that it attempts to download and install the swype.apk from the server and it tries to install it, and thats where it gets blocked. so im trying to figure out how to install the swype.apk that was downloaded through the swype installer, when i cant find any temp file or anything that just says swype.apk
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This is where you might want to contact swype directly.
That would be my best advice for you.
I'm working on getting the Gingerbread keyboard working.
That sentence just doesn't feel right to me.
lonesomecrow said:
Same here, the Gingerbread KB FC's on me. I reinstalled just to be sure but it still does it. Anybody know how to fix it?
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Click to collapse
http://www.appbrain.com/app/keyboard-from-android-2-3/com.moo.android.inputmethod.latin.free
Download this.
How did you install swype, in bullet point. Mine went like this
-registered on swype's website
-downloaded swypeinstaller.apk
-used sideloading wonder machine to install swypeinstaller.apk
-opened swype installer app
-logged into swype's server
-downloaded the 2.5MB swype (english/spanish)
-got the install blocked error, gave option to go to settings or cancel (obviously settings does nothing because we cannot check "unknown sources")
I'm not new to this stuff, and i've had HTC phones before, so i really doubt i did anything wrong, and i cannot accept the fact that the phone i purchased on launch day is blocked more than anyone elses phone that also got it on launch day. Im not being a jerk, but the only people that can help are the awesome devs on XDA, so help lol prease
So I know this version is probably still themed with that terrible gray, but can anyone comment on the improvements? I'm curious if it's worth installing over the Samsung themed version. It looks to have some nice new features/updates, but I'm assuming it'll get rolled into the next ota update if Samsung loves us, which remains to be seen. I used to have a play toy to try this stuff out on but unfortunately I sold them both :'(
I used to use Swype.
However, after using SwiftKey X (which is available here in Beta right now), I have lost all interest in Swype. SwiftKey is so [email protected] near telepathic at times, it's scary!
SwiftKey learns *your* typing style, and suggests words based on your style and grammar. Until Blind Type comes out, I don't think a better keyboard is available - anywhere.
Highly recommended! Almost all of my friends that have used it have stuck with it after the trial period.
Give it a shot!
Cheers,
I use SwiftKey. After letting it have access to your email, and facebook and twitter it does an unbelievable job of word suggestion. Then it only gets better the more that you use it. After about a few months with this app, my word suggestions are very accurate.
Sent from my SCH-I510 using Tapatalk
3.0
I started with Shapewriter, then Swiftkey, and now Swype 3.0.
My biggest gripes with Swype have been fixed for 3.0.
Predictive text words are now a horizontal bar above the keyboard instead of that annoying pop-up window. Also, it now predicts for tapping as well as swyping.
For me, this makes it a true hybrid keyboard as there are time where I just feel like doing one but not the other.
The prediction is not as slick SwiftKey's but I don't think I'm going back as this is by far Swype's best keyboard.
I believe you have to have root to install 3.0 on the Charge.
My 2 cents.
New Swype 3.0 Beta
Alright I decided to give the new Swype a try after reading several positive reviews. I must say that in comparison to the one that shipped with our phones, the 3.0 beta is significantly better. I tried Swiftkey X and I found the keyboard itself to be too small, with too much space between the keys. Swype 2 was a little annoying so I mostly used the Samsung keyboard but 3.0 is nice! The buttons are bigger, even than Swype 2.0 and the color scheme is better though still in need of a reskin. It seems very responsive and the prediction is better too. Also it allows for easier transitioning between typing and swyping. It scales perfectly with an lcd density of 200, which was another gripe I had with Swiftkey X.
You have to remove the stock swype 2.28 before you can install the new 3.0 beta. I found directions for removing (or renaming to keep a backup which is what I did) for the fascinate which work perfect for the Charge as this is what I did:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1128986
After renaming all of the files listed to .bak or deleting them, reboot or it won't install correctly. Then download the new installer from your phone's browser here: http://beta.swype.com/
Follow the installer instructions and you're done. I'll probably continue using it as the buttons are large and it's easier to transition from typing/swyping.
It's sad the the theme still looks that hideous. I think just for that reason I'll hold out for our next ota update and pray that it's in there. Doubt it, but I can hope. I'm not opposed to installing over my copy, but it's just so ugly!
Homestar1217 said:
It's sad the the theme still looks that hideous. I think just for that reason I'll hold out for our next ota update and pray that it's in there. Doubt it, but I can hope. I'm not opposed to installing over my copy, but it's just so ugly!
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Charge is a great phone, but IMO the orange theme on stock is already at the pinnacle of ugly excellence, so swype could not make it any worse
I replaced the stock swype with the beta v3 and I do like the beta better. Word suggestions appearing horizontal above the keyboard instead of over the stuff you're typing is a big improvement.
It's true, the orange is not my favorite haha. But truthfully if we get 2.3 I won't care what color it is, I've been waiting for that since I got my Vibrant a year ago. Samsung is so slow with updates it's unreal. And I would hope if we get that update Swype 3.0 would come with it!
Anyone else still waiting for swype to send them the e-mail? I've tried two different e-mail accounts...still waiting 20 minutes later. I know..I'm an impatient s.o.b.
It's never taken them long to send me an e-mail, but I just archived the one they sent with the installer so I could put it on any phone.
I have been waiting a day now for the email and I deleted the other swype. This is going great so far.
Sent from my SCH-I510 using XDA Premium App
psalm462 said:
I have been waiting a day now for the email and I deleted the other swype. This is going great so far.
Sent from my SCH-I510 using XDA Premium App
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I am in the same boat. This is ridiculous...
The automated email system from their website seems to have been down the part few days. I hadn't received mine either then I went to the beta swype website and had them resend the Verification email and I received it instantly. Just try to login then right under the password field you will see a resend confirmation email link.
Sent from my SCH-I500 using XDA App
So I have been trying to upgrade to the new 3.0 version, however I can't seem to get the previous version to uninstall. I was able to uninstall Swype Installer, but am unable to do so for Swype. The uninstall function is greyed out, so is not an option. I re-installed the Installer, however I cannot get past the Generate License stage of the install process, so I am unable to utilize that to uninstall Swype as well. Is there a way to manually do this. Thanks in advance for any help you guys can provide!
J7NY said:
So I have been trying to upgrade to the new 3.0 version, however I can't seem to get the previous version to uninstall. I was able to uninstall Swype Installer, but am unable to do so for Swype. The uninstall function is greyed out, so is not an option. I re-installed the Installer, however I cannot get past the Generate License stage of the install process, so I am unable to utilize that to uninstall Swype as well. Is there a way to manually do this. Thanks in advance for any help you guys can provide!
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Click to collapse
This should help you out, it was posted earlier in the thread.
hokulus said:
You have to remove the stock swype 2.28 before you can install the new 3.0 beta. I found directions for removing (or renaming to keep a backup which is what I did) for the fascinate which work perfect for the Charge as this is what I did:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1128986
After renaming all of the files listed to .bak or deleting them, reboot or it won't install correctly. Then download the new installer from your phone's browser here: http://beta.swype.com/
Follow the installer instructions and you're done. I'll probably continue using it as the buttons are large and it's easier to transition from typing/swyping.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I tried that. However I can't figure out how to get to my /System folder. I can only seem to find my SD Card. Perhaps I am missing something and this is very easy, but any help would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Are you rooted?
J7NY, I think you have to have root explorer, because when I use the file manager that came on the phone ( or with gummycharge...?) it still wont let me delete or rename the file. so I am stuck right now as well.
Wardroid said:
J7NY, I think you have to have root explorer, because when I use the file manager that came on the phone ( or with gummycharge...?) it still wont let me delete or rename the file. so I am stuck right now as well.
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I am not rooted, thanks for the information. That is terrible news!! Seems pretty stupid to me. I have the 3.0 version on my Xoom and it is so much better!
Swype, in their post for the beta, says it is not compatible with systems that come with Swype preinstalled for just this reason. You have to mount your /system directory Read/Write instead of Read/Only to be able to mess with any of the files there (easily done with Root Explorer), which requires root access. If you do that, you can rename or delete all of the Swype files that were installed in the system.
When they release it, hopefully they will have a good method for systems that come preinstalled with Swype.
I just got the phone 2 days ago and have been browsing around for answers and come up with very little....
First off, if I were to do the root, unlock bootloader, etc., am I still only limited to ROMs specificially for the AT&T phone or can I use ARHD for example from the other forum?
Second, is there any way to use the real ICS keyboard instead of HTC's or one off the market? I had a galaxy nexus and really like that one. I am currently using a copy from a while ago from the market and its not as good.
Third, I like the revamped messaging app, but doesn't have the emojin support. Was wondering if there was anything on the market besides GOSMS or Handcent, etc. that could allow that with the stock messaging app.
Appreciate your time and thanks in advance
Cerebro22 said:
Second, is there any way to use the real ICS keyboard instead of HTC's or one off the market? I had a galaxy nexus and really like that one. I am currently using a copy from a while ago from the market and its not as good.
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Click to collapse
I also came from a gnex, and love the stock ICS keyboard. The easiest way to safely get it for free is to download one of the latest CM9 nightlies from http://download.cyanogenmod.com/?device=maguro&type=nightly
Then open the zip, go to system/app, and copy LatinIME.apk out. Put it on your one x and install it. You'll then have to go into settings->language/keyboard, and enable the keyboard.
After that, go to any text field on your phone (like your browser's URL bar), make the HTC keyboard pop up, then drag down your notification bar and you'll see the switch keyboard notification.
No root required, nice and safe.
That is an awesome trick lol...Do you have any other apk suggestions I can use from the CM build?
It works perfectly! Thanks again
Cerebro22 said:
That is an awesome trick lol...Do you have any other apk suggestions I can use from the CM build?
It works perfectly! Thanks again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't felt the need for anything else from my gnex, so I didn't attempt to use any other apks. I know a few people were requesting the stock sms and dialer, but you really need to be careful pulling system/app apks out, since there could be dependencies.
slippers67 said:
I also came from a gnex, and love the stock ICS keyboard. The easiest way to safely get it for free is to download one of the latest CM9 nightlies from http://download.cyanogenmod.com/?device=maguro&type=nightly
Then open the zip, go to system/app, and copy LatinIME.apk out. Put it on your one x and install it. You'll then have to go into settings->language/keyboard, and enable the keyboard.
After that, go to any text field on your phone (like your browser's URL bar), make the HTC keyboard pop up, then drag down your notification bar and you'll see the switch keyboard notification.
No root required, nice and safe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
NICE So much better to type on now!
Anyone else for the emojin question? I found the answer to the first one.
Thanks