Singapore Startup Acti Launches AI-Powered Keyboard with Custom Shortcuts

Artificial intelligence continues to permeate everyday technology, and now it is entering the smartphone keyboard. Singapore-based startup Acti has launched an AI-powered keyboard compatible with both iOS and Android platforms. The keyboard allows users to create custom AI shortcuts using plain English, aiming to make AI more accessible without requiring users to switch between apps.

The keyboard, a frequently used feature on smartphones, has seen little innovation in recent years. Acti seeks to change that by integrating AI agents directly into the typing experience. Users can invoke AI agents from the keyboard to perform tasks such as getting restaurant recommendations or stock prices within messaging apps, emails, or notes.

Founded by Young Wang, Acti is available as a free download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in major markets, including India. The startup argues that the keyboard is a more natural interface for AI than widgets, separate apps, or system-level assistants.

Acti uses Google's Gemini models to power its AI features. A key feature called Skills lets users create custom keyboard shortcuts to automate tasks like translating messages or sharing meeting links. The company says it uses a local-first approach, keeping user data on the device by default for privacy. It does not access or store private messages or personal context unless a user explicitly triggers a feature that requires external processing.

While AI chatbots and agents are already used by many, Acti demonstrates how AI can be embedded into interfaces already in use. The challenge, the startup acknowledges, is that users tend to stick with a keyboard for a long time and do not change it frequently. However, Acti aims to overcome this by providing added utility without disrupting the existing user experience.