Update introduces return of original Emoji and GIF selection tool in Gboard
In a swift response to user dissatisfaction, Google has rolled back some changes made to the Emoji and GIF picker in the Gboard app, following an unpopular redesign that was introduced in June 2025. The recent Gboard update 15.5 aims to restore the more familiar, efficient emoji and GIF picker experience that Android users preferred.
The most significant change in the rollback is the replacement of the controversial carousel interface with large rectangular cards for switching between Emoji, Custom Stickers, GIFs, Stickers, and Emoticons. The new layout is now a more compact design, fitting all categories on one screen, similar to the older version but using narrower rounded cards rather than pills.
Other changes include the reinstatement of the delete key to its original position on the right side, replacing the prior floating action button (FAB) that appeared only when text was entered. The FAB was criticized for obscuring parts of the interface.
While some design elements remain from the redesign, such as updated section headings that allow more items in the top row, the combined expressive page grouping stickers and GIFs together has not returned. On devices with fewer picker items, the interface appears left-aligned rather than centered, causing slight layout differences.
New features like the AI-generated sticker button powered by Google’s Gemini model remain, currently limited to Pixel 9 devices with possible expansion to Pixel 10. Gboard on Pixel now includes a 'Browse' option for Emoji Kitchen.
The changes seem to be controlled via server-side updates, so users may see the revised interface without manually updating the app. The Emoji and GIF picker update in Gboard 15.5 is now being rolled out to the stable channel.
In the future, Gboard is expected to integrate with 'Pixel Sense', enhancing the user experience further. This update marks a step towards improving user satisfaction and maintaining the app's efficiency, as Google continues to listen to and respond to user feedback.
[1] 9to5Google (2025). Gboard 15.5 update rolls back Emoji and GIF picker changes following user feedback. [Online]. Available at: https://9to5google.com/2025/07/20/gboard-15-5-update-reverts-emoji-gif-picker-changes/ [2] 9to5Google (2025). Gboard 15.5 update returns interface to original layout with compact design. [Online]. Available at: https://9to5google.com/2025/07/20/gboard-15-5-update-compact-design/ [3] 9to5Google (2025). Gboard 15.5 update addresses issues with Emoji and GIF picker redesign. [Online]. Available at: https://9to5google.com/2025/07/20/gboard-15-5-update-emoji-gif-picker/
- In an effort to address user dissatisfaction, Google has redesigned the Emoji and GIF picker in Gboard, replacing the controversial carousel interface with large rectangular cards for gadgets such as smartphones and technology like the new compact design on Android devices.
- While some elements from the previous redesign remain, such as the updated section headings, the new layout of Gboard's Emoji and GIF picker includes the reinstatement of the delete key and a more efficient, familiar experience that fits all categories on one screen, similar to the older version.
