Naya Connect: The Modular Keyboard for Indecisive Typists
▼ Summary
– The Naya Connect is a new modular keyboard system from a creator who previously launched the successful Naya Create Kickstarter.
– It consists of four main components: a 75% mechanical keyboard, a 24-key multipad, a programmable key strip, and a dock for swappable controllers.
– The system is highly flexible, with magnetic connectors allowing the pieces to be arranged in almost any combination to suit user preference.
– The project was quickly funded, meeting its Kickstarter goal in just six minutes, indicating strong initial interest.
– Pricing for the bundles ranges from approximately $218 for a basic setup to about $662 for the comprehensive “All-in” bundle.
For those who can’t settle on a single keyboard layout or pointing device, the Naya Connect offers a compelling solution. This modular system builds upon the success of its predecessor, the Naya Create, but shifts to a more conventional flat design. The core idea is radical flexibility, allowing users to assemble their perfect typing and control station from interchangeable magnetic components. The project’s rapid funding success, meeting its goal in a mere six minutes, demonstrates a clear appetite for this kind of customizable hardware.
The system revolves around four primary pieces. First is the Naya Type, a sleek low-profile mechanical keyboard with a 75-percent layout. Next is a 24-key multipad for macros and shortcuts, followed by a slim six-key programmable strip. The final element is the dock, which houses four keys and a slot for a swappable controller module. These controllers are the same four options offered with the earlier Naya Create: a touchpad, a trackball, a rotary encoder, or a 6DoF spatial mouse. This means you can mix and match pointing methods without being locked into a single choice.
The magnetic connectors are the magic ingredient, enabling almost limitless physical configurations. You could place a large rotary dial to the left of the keyboard for media control and a touchpad on the right for navigation. A left-handed user might position the multipad on the left side, while a power user could flank the keyboard with multipads on both sides for an expansive array of programmable keys. The design philosophy is entirely user-centric, empowering you to build a setup that matches your specific workflow, whether for creative tasks, gaming, or data entry.
Pricing for the Naya Connect varies significantly based on the bundle. The comprehensive All-in package, which includes the keyboard, multipad, key strip, two docks, and one of each controller type, carries a price tag of approximately $662. For those wanting to start with a simpler setup, an entry bundle with a dock and just the touchpad controller begins at around $218. As with any crowdfunded project, potential backers should consider the inherent risks of pre-ordering hardware that is still in development.
(Source: The Verge)
