This guide will walk you through the process to change the default language on your Android phone or tablet, as well as how to change your Android keyboard’s input language. Personalizing your device’s language settings can make it much easier to use, especially if you are multilingual or setting up a device for someone else.
How to adjust the language on an Android device
Follow these methods to update the system-wide display language and add new languages to your on-screen keyboard for a fully customized experience.
Method 1: Changing the display language
- Open your Android’s Settings. You can do this by swiping down from the top of the screen and tapping the gear-shaped icon in the top-right corner of the drop-down menu. You might need to use two fingers to swipe down.
- Scroll down and tapSystem, which is near the bottom of the Settings page.
- If you’re using a Samsung Galaxy: You will need to scroll down and tapGeneral management instead.
- If the current language is unfamiliar: Look for the “ⓘ” icon near the bottom of the page; the text next to it is the System option.
- TapLanguage & input. This is located near the top of the page, next to a globe-shaped icon.
- On a Samsung Galaxy:TapLanguage and input at the top of the page.
- TapLanguages, which is the top option on the page.
- On a Samsung Galaxy:TapLanguage at the top of the page.
- TapAdd a language. This is usually found below the current language list, next to a large ＋ icon.
- On a Samsung Galaxy:TapAdd language.
- Select a language from the list by scrolling down and tapping on it. Your desired language will be written in its native form to help you find it.
- If prompted, select a region that corresponds to the dialect of the language you want to use.
- When the prompt appears, tapSet as default to apply the change immediately.
- On a Samsung Galaxy: You will tapSET AS DEFAULT.
- If the language does not update automatically, you must manually move it. Tap and drag the icon on the far-right side of your chosen language to move it to the top of the list.
Method 2: Changing the keyboard’s input language
- Open your Android’s Settings by swiping down from the top and tapping the gear-shaped icon.
- Scroll down and tapSystem, found near the bottom of the page.
- On a Samsung Galaxy:TapGeneral management instead.
- TapLanguage & input near the top of the page.
- On a Samsung Galaxy: You will tapLanguage and input.
- TapVirtual keyboard in the middle of the screen.
- On a Samsung Galaxy:TapOn-screen keyboards.
- Select your default keyboard from the list to change its language settings.
- Open the keyboard’s language settings. The option name varies, so look for a menu item like Languages or Change input language.
- For the Samsung keyboard:TapMANAGE INPUT LANGUAGES.
- Enable the language you wish to use by tapping the switch or checkbox next to it. You can also disable any languages you no longer need by unchecking them.
- You may need to tapDownload next to a language before you can use it.
- To use your keyboard’s new language, open an app with a text field and bring up the on-screen keyboard. Long-press the “Languages” icon on the keyboard and select your desired language from the pop-up menu.
Setting your Android device to your native or preferred language significantly improves usability and comprehension. Every menu, notification, and app instruction becomes instantly clear, reducing frustration and making your daily interactions with your phone more efficient and enjoyable. This simple change transforms your device into a truly personal tool.
For multilingual individuals, adding multiple keyboard languages is essential for seamless communication. It allows you to quickly switch between languages while texting friends, writing emails, or searching online without needing to change your device’s entire display language. This flexibility supports your ability to communicate effectively in different contexts and with different people around the world.
