RIM gets patent for QWERTY that improves the accuracy of typing on a mobile device

10comments
RIM gets patent for QWERTY that makes it easier to type on
Filed in  January 2009 by RIM, the USPTO has granted a patent to the Canadian manufacturer for a physical QWERTY that allegedly improves the accuracy of typing on a mobile device. U.S. Patent 8,175,664 is for an "angular keyboard for a handheld mobile communications device". The keys are angled toward the left and right from the center line of the QWERTY. The idea behind the patent was credited to Joseph Hofer, Roman P. Rak and Jason T. Griffin.
 
Ironically, this patent is granted just when RIM is releasing information about its new BlackBerry 10 OS and the first device to come to market with the new software will not offer a physical QWERTY keyboard. But CEO Thorsten Heins has made it clear that RIM's trademark physical keyboard is not gone forever and that the company is developing a BlackBerry 10 model with a physical QWERTY. It is unknown whether that keyboard will incorporate the angled keys displayed in this patent.

source: USPTO via Engadget

Recommended Stories

Loading Comments...
FCC OKs Cingular\'s purchase of AT&T Wireless