The Typo Keyboard, an iPhone accessory that is backed by American Idol host, Ryan Seacrest, has sold out of pre-orders and is set to ship to customers by the end of the month. The device, which created a buzz at CES 2014 in Las Vegas, allows users to attach a BlackBerry-styled keyboard to the iPhone 5 and iPhone 5s, and the cost for this luxury is only $99.
According to the startup company behind the device, Typo Products LLC, new orders will be shipped only by the end of February.
"The TYPO Keyboard has received an overwhelmingly positive response from the media and consumers alike. We're excited about all of the positive feedback TYPO has generated and we're working hard to ensure that we get as many keyboards in consumers hands as soon as possible," said Typo Keyboard CEO and co-founder Laurence Hallier, in an emailed statement to Tech Times. "We could not have predicted how well the TYPO launch has gone, it's surpassed our most ambitious expectations."
While the Typo Keyboard brings an unrivaled typing experience to the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5, it also adds a little bit of heft to the devices. The keyboard adds 1/4" thickness and 3/4" in total length to the iPhone. This was made possible due to the designers and engineers miniaturizing the components on the circuit board by using the patented TYPOTouch technology and one of the smallest lithium-ion batteries in the world.
Benefits of of the Typo Keyboard
According to Typro Products LLC, the Typo Keyboard is the only Bluetooth- enabled keyboard with built-in intelligence on the market right now. Furthermore, it allows the user to type while viewing content on every inch of the screen as it removes the need for the on-screen keyboard. This allows for the reclaiming of 40 percent of the display, which is very important to many users.
Another benefit of the Typo Keyboard is the ability to type in the dark due to the keys being back-lit. There's also a simple battery indicator on the device, which tells the user how much energy is left before the battery runs out of charge. Still, you won't have to worry about battery life as the Typo Keyboard is able to last up to one week on a full charge.
Infringement Concerns
Earlier this year, BlackBerry said the Typo Keyboard infringed on its iconic keyboard patented design, and threatened to protect its intellectual property. However, Typo Products LLC responded in a statement, saying BlackBerry's lawsuit holds no merit, and the company will defend the case vigorously.
