I swapped Gboard for an offline keyboard; now my typing data stays on my phone

I rely heavily on my phone's keyboard for everyday tasks like messaging, emailing, and Googling. Gboard, with its excellent autocorrect and predictions, has always been my go-to choice. However, I began to question the privacy implications of using a cloud-connected keyboard, even when personalization is turned off. My phone keyboard is used frequently throughout the day, from quick work messages to personal notes, which raises concerns about the data transmitted to remote servers.

This led me to explore offline keyboard options that could minimize my typing data exposure. The FUTO keyboard stood out as a strong contender. It offers swipe typing and offline voice input, processing everything locally rather than relying on cloud-based services. While it may lack some of Gboard's advanced features, its commitment to keeping typing and voice processing on the device is appealing, especially for privacy-conscious users.

Another option is HeliBoard, which not only operates entirely offline but also lacks the standard Android internet permission. This means no typing data is sent to remote servers, making it a robust choice for users prioritizing privacy. HeliBoard also boasts a variety of themes and a convenient one-hand mode, enhancing its usability.

AnySoftKeyboard is another solid alternative for those seeking a highly customizable offline keyboard. Its ability to configure autocorrect preferences and its incognito mode, which prevents new words from being learned, add to its privacy-focused appeal. While an offline keyboard can't eliminate all privacy concerns, it offers a significant advantage in controlling how your typing data is handled by remote servers.