Google Japan’s Keyboard Inspired by Rotary Phones
▼ Summary
– The author is a senior tech reporter with extensive experience covering gadgets since 2006 and a lifelong passion for electronics.
– Google Japan’s Gboard Dial Version is a concept keyboard that replaces keys with nine dials for typing characters by rotating them.
– Typing involves inserting a finger into a dial hole, rotating it to its limit, and releasing to input characters as the dial returns.
– The keyboard uses modern sensors to convert dial rotations into USB signals, differing from rotary phones’ pulse dialing method.
– This experimental keyboard is not for sale, but Google has open-sourced its design with downloadable files for DIY construction.
Google Japan has once again captured the imagination of tech enthusiasts with its latest experimental keyboard, the Gboard Dial Version, which draws direct inspiration from the classic rotary telephone. This unconventional input device replaces traditional keys with nine rotating dials of various sizes, each assigned to specific alphanumeric characters and functions, including a dedicated dial just for the return key. Typing involves inserting a finger into the appropriate dial hole, rotating it until it stops, and then releasing to allow the dial to spring back into place.
Speed typing is certainly not the goal here. The design intentionally slows down the input process, making users more deliberate with each character selection. This concept keyboard revives the tactile, mechanical interaction of vintage rotary phones, but instead of relying on outdated pulse dialing technology, it utilizes modern sensors. These sensors detect the rotational movement of each dial and convert it into standard USB signals that computers can understand.
An accompanying accessory enhances the nostalgic experience by mimicking another rotary phone behavior. Just as old telephones ended calls when the handset was returned to its cradle, a specially designed stand can turn off your webcam during video calls simply by placing your computer mouse on top of it. This thoughtful addition completes the retro-inspired user experience.
This isn’t Google Japan’s first venture into unconventional keyboard designs. Previous concepts have included a cylindrical keyboard shaped like a traditional Japanese Yunomi teacup and an extraordinarily long 65-inch keyboard with all QWERTY keys arranged in a single continuous strip. Like those earlier experiments, the Dial Version keyboard remains a conceptual project and is not available for commercial purchase.
However, for dedicated DIY enthusiasts and makers fascinated by unique input methods, Google has made the complete design open-source. All necessary files, including 3D printer models, printed circuit board designs, and comprehensive parts lists, are available for download on GitHub. This allows anyone with the required technical skills and equipment to build their own dial-based keyboard and experience this blend of historical design and modern technology firsthand.
(Source: The Verge)
