Google Japan has unveiled a bizarre conveyor belt keyboard that brings keys to your fingertips via a rotating mechanism, mimicking a factory assembly line. The device, which looks like a hybrid of a keyboard and a treadmill, is a humorous April Fools' joke intended to promote Gboard, Google's Android keyboard app. The tradition of releasing wacky keyboard prototypes began in 2010 with a drumset keyboard and has continued annually, often on October 1.
While the conveyor belt keyboard isn't available for purchase, Google has released the build plans on GitHub for DIY enthusiasts. The team claims the keyboard is designed for one-handed use and reduces fatigue by eliminating the need to move your hand to meet the keys. Previous creations include a Morse code keyboard, a flipcard keyboard, a joystick-controlled finger, and a bubble wrap keyboard.
This year's model continues the tradition of absurd yet cleverly designed prototypes that celebrate the playful spirit of Google Japan's culture.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing