Keyboards have made the news in recent months with stories ranging from a customizable programmable keyboard, to a keyboard part of a USB-C dock, and a 2-key open-source keypad.
FICIHIP multifunctional keyboard is special in its own way as besides a traditional QWERTY keyboard is also includes a 12.6-inch touchscreen display which makes it looks like a computer, but no, it’s really just a USB keyboard that happens to come with a display design for computers and smartphones.
FICIHIP multifunctional keyboard key features and specifications:
- QWERTY keyboard with RGB backlight and hot-swappable mechanical keycaps for DIY layout on K2 model only
- Display – 12.6-inch screen with 1920×515 resolution @ 60 Hz, 10-point multitouch panel
- HDMI input – HDMI 1.4 port
- USB – USB 3.1 Type-C port, 2x USB 2.0 ports
- Aluminum body
That means the keyboard acts as a second display either through the USB-C port when connected to a mobile phone, laptop, or computer with such interface, or through HDMI plus USB with other devices. The keyboard also acts as a USB hub through the two USB 2.0 ports. The company claims the touchscreen display typically cuts mouse usage by around 50%.
FICIHIP says no software is needed, and the keyboard is compatible with Huawei EMUI, Samsung DEX, and other desktop-capable mobile operating systems. Bear in mind you’ll only get user-swappable mechanical keys and RGB LED backlight on the K2 model. The concept is quite similar to the keyboard used in ASUS ZenBook Duo UX481 laptop with a secondary 12.6-inch display which may end up being the same in both products.
Both versions of the keyboard have been launched on Kickstarter with over $100,000 raised so far, well above the initial funding target. Rewards start at $209 for the K1 model, and $280 for the K2 version as all Super Early Bird rewards ($240) have already been backed. Prices do not include shipping which adds about $15 worldwide. The company expects to ship the keyboard right after the end of the crowdfunding campaign in August.
Via Liliputing
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
Support CNX Software! Donate via cryptocurrencies, become a Patron on Patreon, or purchase goods on Amazon or Aliexpress
Somebody is reinventing Sir Clive Sinclairs, Cambridge Z88.
Example : https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridge_Z88
The one you linked to is a computer, the one in the post may look similar, but it’s just a keyboard.
No trackpoint, sadly. Trackpoint reduces mouse usage 100%.
Is anyone using that while sitting at a desk? Which you would be doing with this keyboard.
Seems like something I would want to try before paying $300 for.
It’s getting close to the VT100-like thin terminal I’ve been dreaming about many years ago. Now it’s a bit different (and more modern) with standard keyboard and display (well almost as not all machines support display on USB). Some keyboards used to feature a touchpad area on the right, to be controlled by the thumb (sorry for the left-handed ones). Given how stretched the screen is, there could have been a way to slightly reduce it and leave a few centimers on the right for a small touchpad area. But for android and touch-like interfaces in general I guess makes… Read more »
The K2 model is now available on Amazon for $389!