How to Add Input Languages and Keyboard Layouts in Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

Adding multiple input sources and locales in Ubuntu is useful because it allows users to work seamlessly in different languages and regional formats. For example, multilingual users can quickly switch between English, Hindi, or French keyboards without extra setup, making communication more efficient.  

Locales also help in adapting date, time, currency, and measurement formats to match regional preferences, which is especially valuable for people working in international teams or across borders.  

Overall, this flexibility makes Ubuntu more inclusive, convenient, and practical for a diverse global user base. 

So, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, the latest long-term support release, makes it simple to work with multiple languages and keyboard layouts like its predecessors.  

Why Add an Input Source? 

You may need multiple input sources if you: 

• Type in more than one language (e.g., English and French). 

• Prefer a different regional keyboard layout (e.g., US, UK, or Dvorak). 

• Use accented characters or special scripts. 

This step-by-step guide will show you how to add and manage additional input sources on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. 

Adding an Input Language Source in Ubuntu 24.04 LTS 

Click the Show Apps button and select Settings from the dropdown. 

In the left sidebar of the Settings window, click on Keyboard. From the right side, scroll to the Input Sources section. 

Here, you’ll see your current keyboard layout (usually English (US) by default). Click the + Add Input Source… button. 

A list of available languages will appear. 

Either scroll through the list or type your language name in the search bar. 

Select the language you want, then pick the specific layout (for example:  English (UK), French (AZERTY), etc.). 

Confirm your selection and click Add. 

The new input source will now appear under your active input sources list. To rearrange the order, drag the input sources up or down.

To remove a source, highlight it by clicking the dots next to the right of it and click the Remove button. 

 

Switching Between Input Sources 

You can quickly switch between layouts using: 

Super (Windows) key + Spacebar

You can also switch by clicking the input indicator in the top-right system menu. 

So, Ubuntu makes it easy to work with multiple languages and keyboard layouts. This feature is especially useful for multilingual users, writers, and anyone who needs flexible typing options. 

All done.