Android 4.2 download available to all, but only contains new Gesture Typing keyboard

We still have no idea when Android 4.2 Jelly Bean will be rolled out to existing Nexus devices, but at least we can tell you that an early version of the new keyboard app found inside Google’s latest Android update is now available to download for devices running Ice Cream Sandwich or higher.
As you may already know, the new keyboard app comes with a new interesting feature called Gesture Typing, which is what Google calls its own Swype-like keyboard. In case you want to experience without having to wait for the actual Android 4.2 roll out to come out, you can do so right away.
The only caveat is that you’ll need a device that doesn’t run stock Android ICS or higher to enable it. Otherwise you’ll have to root your handset before enjoying Gesture Typing.
As always, remember that we’re not encouraging you to install any unofficial software on your devices and you’re the only person responsible for whatever happens with your device during such procedures. But we’ll also remind you to back up sensitive data before doing anything that you’re not entirely comfortable doing.
Have you tried the Android 4.2 keyboard app yet?

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SwiftKey Flow has been announced, may give Swype some real competition 

When Swype was first released, it took the world by storm. It became so popular so quickly that it remains the only non OEM and non stock Android keyboard to come stock in smart phones. It is always improving as well, having recently getting some feature upgrades. The well known third party keyboard SwiftKey may start stomping around Swype’s turf soon with their newest keyboard, SwiftKey Flow.
For those who aren’t familiar, SwiftKey is among the most popular third party keyboards in all of Android. It stakes its claim as having the best text prediction along with easy to adjust settings and some awesome themes. Apparently, they’re taking the next step forward with SwiftKey Flow. It has all the elements of classic SwiftKey, but with the ability to swipe words.
Aside from Swiftkey Flow having all the capabilities of the normal SwiftKey keyboard plus the new swipe feature, it’s also quite aesthetically pleasing. The stock swipe trail is pink that gradually gradients into blue and we assume that’ll be changeable when you switch themes.

Will SwiftKey Flow give Swype competition?

You bet it will. Swype is the reigning champion of swipe style keyboards for right now. However, it does have its pitfalls. It is only now starting to allow things like theming whereas SwiftKey, and presumably SwiftKey Flow, have a healthy set of themes already.
Perhaps the biggest pitfall is that Swype isn’t available everywhere. For instance, for those who like rootin’ and ROMin’ it up, you can’t usually get Swype on AOSP ROMs even if they come included with your phone stock. For SwiftKey Flow, you just have to go download it in the Google Play Store. It doesn’t matter what ROM you’re running or what phone you have. The lack of restrictions will definitely make it a capable competitor.
It hasn’t been announced exactly when SwiftKey Flow will land on the Play Store. On the official SwiftKey website, they state only that it is coming soon. When it drops, who’s getting it?

 

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