MICROSOFT is reportedly working on a new curved ‘Arc’ keyboard for Windows Phone devices that would help users to type with just one thumb, according to a report.
WM Power User claims to have obtained a picture showing a new “one-handed and next-gen soft keyboard” that will apparently be included in Windows Phone 8. The leaked image, said to be from a Microsoft Research presentation, shows the keys clustered in a curve in one corner of the screen, as a way to make it easier for users to type with a single thumb. Due to the reduced screen estate for the keyboard, the image shows that each button will house three letters. It is unclear how the system will exactly work, but it may be that users will hold their finger down to scroll between the letters. But WM Power User claims that the system will use “disambiguation” to deduce what words are being typed.
The technology blog’s image shows the curved keyboard being demoed on a HTC Trophy, suggesting that it could come to Windows Phone 7.8, as well as the full blown Windows Phone 8 release. –DS