Users of the popular SwiftKey keyboard app are receiving notifications that they will soon be required to link their accounts to a Microsoft account, a change that will also impact how their personalized typing data is stored. Those who continue to rely on existing Google or Apple logins risk losing access to their cloud-based predictions and themes, according to reports.
The shift, announced by Microsoft, marks a significant change for the keyboard app, which has long allowed users to sync their data across devices using third-party accounts. Beginning in late May 2026, SwiftKey will mandate a Microsoft account and move user data to Microsoft’s OneDrive cloud storage service, as detailed on the official SwiftKey support page. The transition will be rolled out gradually, with full implementation expected by May 31, 2026.
Microsoft frames the move as a commitment to data privacy and transparency. By tying user data to Microsoft accounts and OneDrive, the company says it can offer enhanced synchronization of typing data, personalized autocorrect suggestions, and theme backups across multiple devices. According to Windows Central, the notification emails sent to SwiftKey users also highlight “improved privacy” and the opportunity to earn Microsoft Rewards points redeemable for charitable donations or Xbox game discounts.
A History of Independence, Now Integrated with Microsoft
SwiftKey, originally developed by TouchType and launched for Android in July 2010, gained popularity for its predictive text capabilities and customization options. It was later released for iOS in September 2014, following Apple’s introduction of third-party keyboard support. The company behind SwiftKey was founded in 2008 by Jon Reynolds, Ben Medlock, and Chris Hill-Scott, with offices in London, San Francisco, and Seoul, according to Wikipedia.
In February 2016, Microsoft acquired SwiftKey for a reported $250 million, and in May 2020, the app was rebranded as Microsoft SwiftKey to reflect its ownership. Despite a brief period where the iOS version of SwiftKey faced discontinuation in 2022, Microsoft reversed course and reintroduced the app with updated features.
What Happens If You Don’t Switch?
Users who choose not to link their SwiftKey account to a Microsoft account will still be able to use the keyboard, but their data will remain stored locally on their device. In other words personalized predictions and themes will not be synchronized across devices. Microsoft states that the app will continue to function normally, but the benefits of cloud-based backup and synchronization will be lost.
For those who already have a Microsoft account, the transition should be seamless. Data from existing Microsoft account users will be automatically backed up to OneDrive. Users currently logged in with Google accounts on Android devices can still do so for now, but will eventually need to make the switch to a Microsoft account to continue enjoying the full range of SwiftKey’s features.
SwiftKey remains a widely used keyboard app, boasting over one billion downloads from the Google Play Store. It currently holds a 4.6-star rating in the Apple App Store, demonstrating its continued popularity among mobile users.
The move to require Microsoft accounts for SwiftKey aligns with the company’s broader strategy of integrating its services and encouraging users to adopt the Microsoft ecosystem. While the change may inconvenience some users, Microsoft argues it will ultimately enhance data security and provide a more unified experience across its products.
Microsoft has not yet announced a specific date for when Google and Apple account logins will be fully disabled, but users are encouraged to migrate their accounts before the May 31, 2026 deadline to avoid any disruption in service.
