Even though you can have your default Language to your Native language, when you communicate with people who knows only other languages it comes difficult to handle to situation. Gmail makes it easy with the Input Tools. You can now compose email in English, and chat with a person in Hindi using Input Tools on Gmail.
Google had this feature for a long time for Indian languages as "Indic Translations", now it has turned on the same for multiple languages across the globe as "Input Tools" with additional features as well. Earlier it used to have only "Transliteration" meaning you can type phonetically in English letters, but the correct alphabet will be used on the text. Now they have added Input Method Editor and Virtual Keyboard support also.
You can easily enable "Input Tools" under Settings --> General --> Languages
Note that if you aren't seeing "Input Tools" in your settings, you can check in Advanced Language options.
But for few users who have enabled certain lab features it doesn't show up automatically for whatever the reason. Here is the workaround we have figured out to have this option show up for you.
If you are using Gmail Lab features like "Right-side chat" go ahead and disable it and reload the page. Now check back again on the Language options you will see the "Input Tools" check box. You can enable "Right-side chat" once again and your "Input Tools" option will also remain intact.
It has something to do with the Layout of the Gmail, if you have enabled any Lab features which needs layout change, then you should follow the steps
1. Disable the Lab Feature which changes the default Gmail Layout
2. See if the "Input Tools" options shows up
3. Enable your Lab feature once again.
Let us know if you are able to use this workaround and enable "Input Tools" feature, and what Lab feature you have enabled which hides this. Please leave your comments.
