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Optimus-like OLED Apple Keyboard?
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Sounds cool, but the real question is, does it have any hope of reaching production at Apple?
An advantage Apple has over Optimus is that they could probably guarantee some economies of scale if the device did go into production.
An advantage Apple has over Optimus is that they could probably guarantee some economies of scale if the device did go into production.
This is the first time I have seen this Optimus keyboard and Wow, I would get one of these in a sec if they were just a little cheaper. For all of the PS work I do I would love to have a keyboard like that (even though I have so many shortcuts memorized it would just look so cool to have this) Hopefully apple can come up with something better and under $200.
You don't? I'm typing on mine right now.
The Optimus Maximus keyboard is shipping. Engadget even got to handle one, although the rest of us will have to wait until February, due to pending firmware updates (those who had pre-ordered can get it now, and update the firmware later.)
I think that counts as an actual invention, not just a concept.
This seems highly suspect and just wrong when you look closely at it.
The OLED screens in big bulky keys are made redundant by the touch-screen technology Apple have already started implementing on the iPhone.
Prolonged typing on a flat surface without any give is just plain uncomfortable.
Couple this with the new slimline keyboards I really don't see this being put into development anytime soon by Apple.
The OLED screens in big bulky keys are made redundant by the touch-screen technology Apple have already started implementing on the iPhone.
Prolonged typing on a flat surface without any give is just plain uncomfortable.
Couple this with the new slimline keyboards I really don't see this being put into development anytime soon by Apple.
I don't understand how some of you are saying OLED tech is expensive? There are many DAP that have more features, and or more space than the ipod that cost either the same or less and some of these products are from small companies.
I paid $45 for a very sleek looking Logitech wireless keyboard and mouse set. So, this should not be more than $80 usd with out a mouse and 100usd with a mouse.
I paid $45 for a very sleek looking Logitech wireless keyboard and mouse set. So, this should not be more than $80 usd with out a mouse and 100usd with a mouse.
Big, high resolution OLED screens are extremely expensive and for now hard to produce in quantities
If it was so cheap then there would already be plenty of cheap keyboards with the tech, TV makers wouldn't have abandoned it as the replacement for both LCD and Plasma, etc. Truth is, OLED in large devices is expensive. Lots of little programable OLED screens on a large device are expensive. The most widespread use of OLED that I have seen is in Pioneer Aftermarket source units. (I think all units use it). And even there it isn't without problems (pixels get stuck when it is cold outside/with age).
my point is they are both too niche and not properly thought through. Tactus or any similar apple style keyboard would be be uncomfortable to use for prolonged periods.
OLED keys are too expensive, bulky and are in the complete opposite direction of Apple's current keyboard design.
This is why I think Apple will introduce neither, one is going against the trend and the other puts style and gimmicks above usability... ok well pot calling the kettle black there in regards to apple... but I don't think apple would try and push it that far.
And why would they, the current keyboards are both stylish and from personal experience the most comfortable keyboard i have used yet on the market?
I think everyone is getting a little too carried away with this multi touch, touch screen, OLED nonsense. Lets try and keep it in context.. on an iPhone great... full size keyboard for a PC.. I think not.
The full Optimus keyboard is $1600. The one with only 47 OLEDs is $1000, 10 OLEDs is $600, and the Optimus with only one super useful OLED on the spacebar is $460.
Not sure, however is it possible if 
uses their "wobbly: icon patent and implement it into a multi-touch keyboard, that way you can have multiple types of keyboard layouts and functions. I believe its also possible to make it have a tactile feel.
Imagine you can shrink a keyboard down in size, and use the keys that you really need to focus on, this also gives software developers options to deliver to its customers.
uses their "wobbly: icon patent and implement it into a multi-touch keyboard, that way you can have multiple types of keyboard layouts and functions. I believe its also possible to make it have a tactile feel.Imagine you can shrink a keyboard down in size, and use the keys that you really need to focus on, this also gives software developers options to deliver to its customers.
With that price structure, they plan on selling few if any (depending on delivery).
With that price structure, they plan on selling few if any (depending on delivery).
We are all expecting Apple to duplicate the efforts at a much cheaper (read <250USD) price.
Yeah kinda noticed on Pg 1....
I don't see it anywhere on page one. But I didn't bother checking page two 'cause my interweb is being slow right now.
Ah, I have my settings set to 40 ppp (post per page). So for me it was page 1. Sorry.
With that price structure, they plan on selling few if any (depending on delivery).
Actually they claimed not so long ago that they are sold out.
Well at that price, they likely don't have many takers, so even a low production rate could be "sold out".
Go, Art, GO!
If it wasn't that expensive, I guess, that the Optimus would sell like hotcakes.
OTOH, what is all the whining about? Heck, even if you pay 1,500 bucks for your keyboard, that's nothing. Why? Because the people, who could really use this keyboard (apart from the geeks) usually spend tens of thousands of dollars for their software.
Just pull together the cost of an above average Mac Pro, one or two 30"-displays, CS3 license, FCS license, maybe even Avid or Logic license, and you see 1,500 bucks actually isn't that much.
Maybe this all leads to something very new, as I'm still waiting, what Apple will do with the acquired Fingerworks knowledge!
If it wasn't that expensive, I guess, that the Optimus would sell like hotcakes.
OTOH, what is all the whining about? Heck, even if you pay 1,500 bucks for your keyboard, that's nothing. Why? Because the people, who could really use this keyboard (apart from the geeks) usually spend tens of thousands of dollars for their software.
Just pull together the cost of an above average Mac Pro, one or two 30"-displays, CS3 license, FCS license, maybe even Avid or Logic license, and you see 1,500 bucks actually isn't that much.
Maybe this all leads to something very new, as I'm still waiting, what Apple will do with the acquired Fingerworks knowledge!
I still don't know why people are saying OLED(in phones and mp3 players) is expensive when small Korean companies like Cowon and iriver and large companies like Samsung are putting them in there device. They are selling their products at what about the same price or a little more than what Apple is selling. They are either putting 1.8-3in oled screens in their devices. If a small company can do it and still pack some nice goodies in their devices surely a larger company like Apple can make it cheaper with the right contract. Besides we are talking about OLED in a small device I don't remember mentioning anything about large screens or tvs.
It is economies of scale.
OLEDs for cellphones and PMPs are built in the millions per year.
Key-sized OLEDs for the Optimus or wall-sized OLEDs for televisions/monitors are built in the thousands per year.
OLEDs for cellphones and PMPs are built in the millions per year.
Key-sized OLEDs for the Optimus or wall-sized OLEDs for televisions/monitors are built in the thousands per year.
This would be a great option on a mackbook or macbook pro.maybe they cold make it like a touch screen so it doesnt bulk up your keyboard. maybe have a key lock like on the iphone for it so u can hae it right next to touchpad