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.
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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 sense to use a touch screen instead of a touchpad. It’s just not suitable for everything. Usually you need such devices for machines that are not remotely accessible, i.e. in BIOS or regular command line.
The K2 model is now available on Amazon for $389!