Norway-based one2TOUCH is offering silicone keyboards that connect to smartphones and tablets simply by laying the mobile device on top - no pairing required. The keyboards feature "Touch & Type" functionality and have a pad that the device can rest on. In the case of one smartphone keyboard, a pad in the center where the phone rests separates left- and right-hand keys. A second model requires the phone to rest along the top edge of the keyboard in order to connect. Once sitting on the keyboard, the phone connects to the keyboard via NFC and is ready to receive input. The silicone keyboard is waterproof, and folds to fit into a bag or pocket.
The design works universally among most smartphones as there is no phone-specific cradle. However it does require a driver to be installed on the mobile device. The company says these will be available for download from the Android Market or the App Store. The Android driver will be available first with a driver for Apple devices released when Apple releases NFC capable devices.
Currently one2TOUCH has a distribution partner in Japan and is also looking for partners in the U.S. and European markets. Pricing details are not yet available.
The video below from one2TOUCH shows the keyboard in action.
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