Android 16 may enable apps to turn off AI writing features

Google may add a significant feature to Android 16 that will let apps turn off the AI Writing features. Simply put, the new OS version will allow applications to decide if they want AI-generated texts or not. This capability could be quite useful.

Before moving to the new changes, let’s understand what is AI writing tool.

AI writing tools generally gather information from a word or a sentence and generate the content automatically. These are perfect when you are out of words or thoughts and want to write a lengthy document, report, or even an important message.

Android 16 Developer Preview 2 is out. It brings useful APIs and methods for developers. Among these additions, Mishaal Rahman – an Android analyst has found two new methods in the EditorInfo class. These are named as:

•  isWiritingToolsEnabled()
• seWritingToolsEnabled()

The former allows applications to transfer about an editable text to the device keyboard. It tells when an AI writing tool is enabled for the text editor. The latter lets the app choose whether it wants to use the AI writing features or keep them out.

Android 16 isWiritingToolsEnabled() API (Image Credits: AndroidAuthority)

Both methods aim to assist apps with better control of writing work. Apps like Gmail don’t disable AI writing tools for regular texts. For instance, writing an email, editing a document on your phone, and more. Although certain apps might want to avoid this AI interference, especially for passwords or phone numbers.

Android 16 setWiritingToolsEnabled() API (Image Credits: AndroidAuthority)

Hence, to maintain user security in every aspect, Google is working on a new EditorInfo segment. In case you prefer a Gboard then don’t worry as Google Keyboard already hides inputs when it detects a number or password field.

Meanwhile, other keyboard apps that do not hide such information can help with the new EditorInfo API. Perhaps, the apps may start blocking AI writing tools with Android 16.

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