We've looked at various folding portable keyboards
designed to make it easy for those that like some tactile feedback when
entering text on mobile devices. But California-based WayTools has
taken a different approach with the TextBlade keyboard, which it claims
is the "most compact touch-type machine ever produced" and literally
pulls apart to fit in a pocket.
Sticking to the familiar QWERTY layout, the TextBlade comprises three
separate modules, each of which isn't much bigger than a stick of
chewing gum. When placed in close proximity to one another in the
correct orientation, the three pieces magnetically snap together to form
the complete keyboard. One of the modules forms the space bar, while
the other two each feature four oversized "ultra smart keys" and make up
the remainder of the keyboard.
Each of these smart keys packs capacitive touch technology like that
used in smartphone touchscreens to bring multi-touch capabilities to
each individual physical button. This allows up to six different
characters to be placed on each key – or 12 if you count the use of a
shift key – with a full 19 mm finger spacing.
To provide the feel of a conventional desktop keyboard without the
bulk, the keys feature what WayTools calls "MagLever" technology. This
is a contactless sensing technology that provides 2 mm of travel,
without any of the wear or depth associated with spring-based keys.
If you think too much key real estate is devoted to the space bar,
that's because it also holds the lithium polymer battery that fast
charges in under an hour via USB. The company claims a single charge
will last around a month with typical usage, largely due to the use of
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to connect wirelessly with a mobile device.
Weighing just 1.5 oz and measuring 104 x 30.6 x 11.3 mm, the
TextBlade comes with a carry sleeve for the keyboard that also doubles
as a stand for a smartphone or tablet when using the keyboard. It is
compatible with iOS and Android devices with BLE.
WayTools has begun production of the TextBlade and says deliveries
will begin next month. Pre-orders are currently being taken, with the
device retailing for US$99.
Ref. Link.- http://www.gizmag.com/textblade-portable-keyboard/35612/
No comments :
Post a Comment