Swype Beta update brings personal dictionary backup & sync, tablet support, themes and more

A heavy hitter in the Android keyboard wars got itself a lovely update today, which is sure to please its users with the new functionality and features it brings. Swype released beta version 1.3.1.9274 to the masses earlier this morning, and it’s got one specific feature that I’ve personally been dreaming of for as long as I can remember Swyping: personal dictionary backup and sync.

This is an awesome addition, especially for those who like to flash custom ROM’s frequently. Up until now, every time a user flashed a new ROM, they were forced to start building their personal dictionary again from scratch. If you’re like me, and flash a new ROM once or twice a week (or perhaps even more often), you know how cumbersome this can get. Well, say goodbye to those days, as the latest Swype lets you back up and sync your dictionary on any registered device. This also means your data can easily be imported when you treat yourself to a new device.

Another really exciting feature in the latest version is the split keyboard layout for tablets. Previously, all we had to work with was a miniature keyboard, which didn’t look or work all that great on larger displays. Now there’s a new option for a split keyboard for more ergonomical tapping and less frustration due to mistyped words.

Tired of the boring old look Swype used to offer? That’s all changed too, with the addition of theme support. There are only 10 to choose from now, and no mention of if people will be able to make their own custom themes, but I’d imagine there’s already a themer out there with the same idea who’ll make it happen on his/her own, rather Swype wants them to or not.

Last up, but equally impressive, is the addition of ”Hotwords”. This is an interesting feature that automatically detects trending words and adds them to your personal dictionary. This means you won’t have to waste precious minutes thumbing out words like “Gangnam Style” when they go viral on the Internet. Swype will recognize these words being used often and add them to your personal dictionary for you, should you choose to opt into the Living language service in the Language Options settings.

If you already have Swype Beta installed, all you have to do is go into your setting and check for an update. It should already be there waiting for you. If you’re new to the game and would like to give it a go, you can download the beta over on the Swype website.

What do you think of the new features, kids?

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