Google’s Innovative New Gboard: A Double-Sided, Endless Keyboard

Google Japan has launched the latest version of the Gboard, featuring a distinctive double-sided design inspired by the Möbius strip, which plays a significant role in mathematics, science, and popular culture. This innovative keyboard can be used by one person or multiple users, truly embodying a keyboard with a twist.

However, the Möbius strip, a one-sided surface created by attaching the ends of a rectangular strip after giving one end a half-twist, has existed for centuries. It finds applications across various fields, including mathematics, science, art, engineering, literature, and music.

A Revolutionary Möbius Strip-Inspired Keyboard

However, developers at Google Japan have now created a computer keyboard inspired by the Möbius strip. Presenting the latest version of the Gboard.

Regarding its specifications, the Gboard features a double-sided ortho-linear design made up of 26 modules, with each module containing eight key switches. It boasts 208 keys, which is more than double the number found on a standard keyboard, and connects via a USB-C cable.

Redefining Collaboration with the Möbius-Inspired Gboard

The Möbius-inspired Gboard enables typing from any angle, whether by an individual or a group, enhancing collaborative projects significantly. Furthermore, the innovative designers of this unique keyboard have made its firmware and hardware design available for free on GitHub, allowing you to create your own version using a 3D printer.

Introducing ‘Keyboard Day’ for Whimsical Designs

Alright, here’s the scoop. Since Google stopped its April Fool’s Day pranks in 2021, Google Japan has taken the initiative to establish ‘Keyboard Day,’ celebrated on October 1 each year, to unveil quirky keyboard designs that serve no practical purpose other than to entertain us. Why October 1? Because 10/1 equals 101, which is the typical number of keys on a keyboard.

The double-sided Gboard is simply the latest addition to a series of bizarre keyboard designs, which have included a teacup version and a stick version—essentially a long string of letters and numbers on a single elongated keyboard, showcasing its absurdity in the video below.

If you visit the GitHub website—which showcases designs for the latest Gboard along with earlier quirky versions—you’ll find a note that reads: “This is not an officially supported Google product.”

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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