The next version of TypeMatrix - if and when?

[Piotr Dobrogost]

Hi!

As there's a lot that could be improved in the current model (2030) of TypeMatrix I would like to know if and when we could expect the next version to be available?

Regards,
Piotr

[James Hudon]

I would like to know this as well! :)

[Abbie]

I too would like to know when a new version is planned and a projected release date.

I Love my 2030!  It takes so much less space on the desk, brings the mouse closer to 'my' center and less strain on the arm & shoulder. I purchased a skin at the same time and am so glad I did. The keyboard still looks like brand new, keeping it debris free. In fact, it's time for a new skin.  Think I'll go w/the Black one this time.

I do have a couple suggestions for improvement.

• I would like to see a larger Tab key. Perhaps by shortening the Left Shift key by one-third & lengthening the tab key.  (to the same size as the current home & left Alt keys for example)
• A larger Fn key - Which I use regularly for quick 10-key entry. 
• I am an Accountant & use the 10-key pad often. I Love Love that it is supper imposed over the alpha keys.  However, even after a few years of use, I still do not have the speed, comfort or accuracy of a standard 10-key pad.
• I believe the + / R-Shift key should be moved downward, reduce the size (length) of the Right Ctrl key by one-third.
• Also increase the length of the - key by the same one-third gain in space from moving the + key downward.
• ~ Yes, a wireless version would be awesome.

I understand by changing the size of these keys will alter the "In-line" key layout somewhat. I do not believe that it will decrease the aesthetics, just as the current Home & left alt keys being a different size & shape have not. :)

I hope you will find these suggestions helpful and in line with others suggestions. I do So much appreciate your listening to our feedback.  I searched long, far and wide to find a keyboard that "Fit" me and am thankful to you for my 2030!   (Now, if I only had the patience to learn Dvorak)

    Here's mine with a clear Skin

[Piotr Dobrogost]

My thoughts from the perspective of a programmer.

Unless one uses VIM editor, accessibility of ALT, CTRL and SHIFT is essential to typing comfort. From this perspective having left CTRL and right ALT being 1x size is not a good thing. Also these keys should have the same sizes and placement on left and right side of the keyboard whereas currently they do not. I would make ALT and CTRL being 2x size (or at least 1,5x size) similarly to SHIFT and place them closer to alpha keys. For example new left CTRL could be placed where current left CTRL and 'play' keys are and new left ALT could be placed where current 'app' and 'shuffle' keys are. Having these keys placed similarly on the right side means moving "arrow" keys somewhere else...  'play', 'app', 'shuffle', 'desktop', 'calc', 'mail', and 'www' keys are not needed (they are seldom used and there are easy shortcuts which can be used instead like Win+D for 'desktop' on Windows) and they only occupy precious space. These keys should be removed and their space used for other keys. Having both big 'space' key and no keys under it is a huge waste of space. One of the best thing to improve ergonomy of keyboard is to place more keys under thumbs. Instead of current 'space' key there should be three new keys (two of them of 2x size, and one in the middle 1x size) and there could be the same set of keys directly below current space (space would have to be the same height as other keys to make room for these extra 3 keys below).

[TypeMatrix Admin]

To address this issue, we must let our customers know that a new version of TypeMatrix is highly unlikely.  We would love to have a bluetooth version, and many of you have made wonderful suggestions about changes that could be made to make the layout better (for you), but truthfully, to make any changes at all would cost us at least $100,000, and we are a VERY small company without that kind of capital.  We have tried, over the years, to find a larger partner who would recognize the brilliance of the TMx design and help us to produce many different models, one of which would fit almost anyone.  But that hasn't happened.  We are happy to be able to produce this quality product, support the customers who appreciate the changes we have made, and just keep stocked with products that people want.  And we thank you for your support in doing this!

[r.c.bruno.andre]

What about Kickstarting a new version? I'm quite sure you could get the needed money for a new version with bluetooth, nub mouse, etc. It would also be great publicity for Typematrix.

[Piotr Dobrogost]

Kickstarter indeed seems like the best option in this situation.

I must admit I'm totally disappointed with TypeMatrix.
Hopefully there's super interesting keyboard project on the horizon − http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=44940.0

[jpec]

+1 for the kickstarter solution !

I will be glad to help financing the new Typematrix keyboard (programmable and bluetooth).

[Alexey Akishin]

It would be great to see programmable Bluetooth version of 2030. I really like my 2030 and its skins, love its physical layout, but I would purchase programmable Bluetooth version if it was available.

If for some reason Kickstarter is not an option, indiegogo.com is good alternative - it has much less restrictions (international projects are allowed, flexible funding option, etc.), it is older than Kickstarter, and it is possible to raise there $100000 or more. You risk nothing by creating a project there so I think it's worth a try. Difference between Kickstarter and Indiegogo is well explained in this article: http://crowdfundingdojo.com/articles/kickstarter-vs-indiegogo-choosing-your-crowdfunding-platform

[Zack]

+1 for the Crowdfunding campaign.

[qbert Pascal]

Hello,

Here is my main requirement for future TypeMatrix 2040 : The ESC key is ways to tiny on the 2030, being one of the most used keys (similarly to  ENTER) when not using the mouse (which happens very often when having a TypeMatrix !). The position to the upper left is good, but it should be A LEAST a normal sized key , if not double-sized !

[wordch...@gmail.com]

Has anyone ever tried the

Nulaxy™ Bluetooth Adapter Convert Wired USB Keyboard & Mouse to Bluetooth Keyboard & Mouse for iOS Android Windows Phones Tablets Computers?

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T5YXNL0?psc=1

[qbert Pascal]

I haven't because I think this one is too big to be convenient as a portable solution.

Personally, I think BlueTooth is not essential. I personally hate having to regulary re-pair a device for system recognition. An USB or PS/2 cable is largely faster to use, having an immediate recognition. Bluetooth could be a option for a keyboard but never being mandatory (keeping a wire port on the keyboard).

That's why I think a new TypeMatrix should have a USB port and a separate pluggable USB cable instead of a fixed cable. It would eventually allow to occasionally replace the cable by a micro Bluetooth adapter, this one being not mandatory.

[wordch...@gmail.com]

A USB port on the keyboard instead of directly wired USB cable would be excellent! One could use a different cord length or put the cord away as needed, as well as swapping to a bluetooth adapter.

Update on the Nulaxy: when the adapter is working, the Typematrix becomes a bluetooth keyboard! (Unfortunately, the adapter I have seems to be defective. I need to follow up with customer service.)

I wanted a full size, but compact keyboard for writing when traveling, or a morning in a café and slim for the desktop; ideally, ultra slim and trim like the Logitech Keys-To-Go, but this fits in a large bag.

[Akatre]

A splitted keyboard like kbpc would be great!