Google is now making Morse code typing available for iPhone users as the tech company rolls out the feature for iOS devices.
Report from The Verge said that Gboard for iOS is now supporting Morse code as well. Furthermore, the tech company is pushing out updates to Gboard for Android.
The input method was first integrated into the Android version of the app, then as a beta version. This was right after the I/O 2018 keynote.
The development of the Morse code technology was brought to the fore through the partnership of Google and developer Tania Finlayson.
Finlayson was born with cerebral palsy. Her advocacy to help people who share the condition brought light into the project.
She was an influence on the design of the keyboard layout, as well as the integration of Morse sequences to the auto-suggest. Moreover, her ideas helped in developing essential settings which further allow people with limited mobility to customize their keyboard according to their needs.
In her Google Blog entry, Finlayson said that much of the technology these days, particularly in the input method, was designed for the "mass market." This means people, whose disabilities hinder full access to traditional keyboard features, will consequently suffer.
To make things easier for the likes of Finlayson, Google launches the initiative to integrate Morse code as a tool for easier communication.
"Developing communication tools like this is important because, for many people, it simply makes life livable," Finlayson said.
Of course, this rather unique way of composing a message has also now become a trend for others who are looking to mix up their smartphone-using experience.
Using the Morse Code in Gboard is easy. Once downloaded, the user simply activates the function and the keyboard area will begin showing dot and dash icons instead of the ubiquitous QWERTY keyboard.
Google is also providing a game for Android and iOS called "Morse Typing Trainer" where interested users can learn to write in Morse code.
