SwiftKey adds neural network word predictions to its flagship keyboard app [Video]

SwiftKey launched its Neural Alpha keyboard in October of last year, and today — almost a year later — the company is introducing neural network-powered word predictions to its namesake main app. This means better word predictions and autocorrect, since the app now better understands the context of what you’re trying to say…

In my experience using the experimental Neural Alpha app last year, I definitely noticed improved word predictions. To oversimplify, the difference is that SwiftKey now looks at more than just the previous two words in your sentence — and better understands the entire context of what you’re typing. The app also now considers similar words to the ones you’ve typed to improve suggestions as well.

And all of the functionality of the SwiftKey Neural Alpha app should now be integrated (and improved) in the SwiftKey app. It’s still available on the Play Store, but its description now suggests that you skip it and just head over and download the main app.

Here’s the full change log:

WHAT’S NEW

– We’ve rebuilt SwiftKey’s language engine from the ground up, laying the foundation for the next generation of our technology. The power of neural networks offers more human predictions by better understanding the context of what you’re saying. (Currently supports English GB & US only).

– We’ve added two new languages: Esperanto and Dhivehi – Maldivian

– Italian SwiftKey users can enjoy updated Italian predictions

– We now support Android N diverse emoji in the prediction bar

As usual, SwiftKey is completely free to download. In addition to bringing neural network word predictions, the app also adds two new languages (Esperanto and Dhivehi), sports updated Italian predictions, and supports Android N emoji in the prediction bar.

To check out more of SwiftKey’s experimental keyboards and apps (including the Clarity Keyboard beta), head over to their Google Play Store developer page.