Google Japan unveils experimental Gboard conveyor belt

Google Japan has unveiled the ‘Gboard Conveyor Belt Version’, an experimental hardware concept that deviates from traditional keyboard designs. Instead of requiring users to move their fingers across stationary keys, the device utilizes four rotating conveyor belts that move 116 keys toward the user’s fingers.

Each of the four belts contains 29 keys, covering both uppercase and lowercase characters. The design is intended to optimize one-handed or single-finger typing, potentially allowing a user to keep their other hand free for other tasks. The typing experience is described as having a feel similar to a rhythm-based video game, as users must time their keystrokes to press letters as they rotate past. While the system includes a high-speed mode to assist with efficiency, Google notes that blind typing is difficult and may require practice to master hand-eye coordination.

This project is part of a tradition of releasing eccentric hardware concepts by Google Japan, following previous unconventional models such as rotary dial keyboards. While the device will not be sold commercially, Google has released the full blueprints, firmware, and assembly instructions as open-source documentation on GitHub for DIY enthusiasts to build their own versions.