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What's a keyboard?

oldpcguy 16th Dec 2008

When is a keyboard not a keyboard? Just because a keyboard is projected isn't it still a keyboard? For example, does an Apple iPhone have a keyboard?

Physical keyboards have certain advantages over virtual, home row, certain physical cues as to where your fingers go, feedback, etc.

I can predict that Microsoft's and Apple's touch technologies may migrate to a desk surface to manipulate information and data, and it may also include a wireless keyboard.

As a former "Certified Office Automation Professional" (yes there really was a COAP), I can remember the time when it was predicted that "executives" would not learn to type, or use a computer and I did not believe that prediction either.

I am not sure what the authors mean by "scarce" by 2012, but I do believe that the number of devices with virtual keyboards will increase and that a single physical wireless keyboard could be used on a variety of devices, if desired.

This could mean "scarce" physical keyboards or just more efficient use of wireless keyboards by being able to connect to multiple devices. Take your pick.