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Surreal! You Don’t Need One, But Google Japan Created a Bizarre Keyboard With 208 Keys — And It Can Be Used by 3 People at the Same Time!

Published on 13/10/2024 at 22:33
Updated on 13/10/2024 at 22:34
Google, Japão, Teclado
Foto: Reprodução
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You Won’t Believe It, But Google Japan Created a Keyboard with 208 Keys That Can Be Used by Three People at the Same Time! Discover How This Crazy Invention Works and What It Can Be Useful For!

Google Japan continues to surprise with its unusual technological launches. The latest novelty is the Gboard Double-Sided, a keyboard that has been nicknamed “Endless Keyboard“. The reason? It is a continuous loop with keys on both sides, allowing typing in a circular manner. Its peculiar appearance has also earned it the nickname “Krispy Kreme,” as it resembles a donut.

Although it seems like an April Fools’ joke (and, in fact, it started as such in 2019), the keyboard actually works. The most interesting part is that anyone can build their own Gboard Double-Sided by following the open-source schematics and STL files available online.

The Innovative Concept of the Gboard Double-Sided

Photo: Google Japan

The Google Japan team had the idea of creating a keyboard that could be used in any orientation. Whether in front, back, or any position, the Gboard Double-Sided offers a completely unconventional experience. Its design is inspired by the Möbius strip, allowing users to type 360 degrees around the device.

Although practicality is not the main focus, the user experience is interesting and fun. Additionally, the keyboard features an ortholinear layout, where the keys are arranged in a grid, unlike the traditional staggered layout.

Curious Technical Specifications

Photo: Google Japan

The Gboard Double-Sided comes with a USB-C connection and 208 mechanical keys arranged on two sides. The keys use switches compatible with Cherry MX, known for their durability and tactile feedback, making typing precise and enjoyable for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

YouTube Video

Another curious detail is the weight of the keyboard. According to Google Japan, it weighs “20.8 donuts”. This means it is approximately 2.2 pounds, making it easy to carry. With a radius of 4 inches, the Gboard Double-Sided can be carried in a fun way, even balanced on your head.

The Tradition of Technological Experiments by Google Japan

YouTube Video

This keyboard is part of a tradition at Google Japan to create experimental devices. In 2019, the company introduced the Gboard Bending Spoon, a keyboard where users selected letters by bending a spoon. A sensor detected the pressure and chose the desired letter. Those who wanted could also build their own.

In 2020, Google Japan launched the Gboard Bar, a keyboard where all the keys were arranged in a single straight line, approximately 1.5 meters long. The one-dimensional QWERTY layout encouraged collaboration between two people, who could type simultaneously.

YouTube Video

In 2021, it was the turn of the Gboard CAPS, a wearable keyboard in the shape of a baseball cap. With it, users could type through head gestures, providing a curious experience, although uncomfortable in the long run.

The Creativity of Google Japan

These launches showcase Google Japan’s ability to create eccentric yet functional devices. The Gboard Double-Sided is not just a joke. It works and offers a real user experience, and it is available for anyone who wants to build their own.

The creativity and boldness in launching products like this demonstrate that Google Japan is willing to explore new ways to interact with technology. And surely, their upcoming launches will continue to surprise the public. Who knows what is coming next? Perhaps a hula hoop-shaped keyboard?

Regardless of the next invention, one thing is certain: Google Japan has no limits when it comes to innovation and fun.

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Fabio Lucas Carvalho

Journalist specializing in a wide variety of topics, such as cars, technology, politics, naval industry, geopolitics, renewable energy, and economics. Active since 2015, with prominent publications on major news portals. My background in Information Technology Management from Faculdade de Petrolina (Facape) adds a unique technical perspective to my analyses and reports. With over 10,000 articles published in renowned outlets, I always aim to provide detailed information and relevant insights for the reader.

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