The Virtual Keyboard (VKB) has reached market in the UK

The VKB could revolutionise the way that PDAs and Smartphones are used, exploiting much of the unused computing power of such mobile devices, thus helping users to work more effectively on the move.

The cigarette-lighter-sized VKB uses laser and infrared technology to project a full-size QWERTY keyboard onto any flat surface for almost any palmtop computer, PDA or mobile phone. It is also easily integrated into a mobile phone, with Siemens and Samsung having shown versions of the technology integrated into their phones at recent trade shows.

Hutchison Harbour Ring (HHR), a subsidiary of Hutchison Whampoa, has launched the first virtual keyboard (VKB) in the United Kingdom and been the first to offer the technology to consumers.

Roughly the size of a disposable lighter, (90 x 34 x 24 mm), the VKB enables users to type email or long text as easily as with a conventional keyboard.

The initial product offering is compatible with the Palm 505.  July will see the launch of the second version, which will be compatible with SPV E200, X da II , Tungsten T3 and iPAQ h 5550.  As compatibility with other devices continues to be developed, additional models will be introduced to the market.

VKB works by using both infrared technology to produce an invisible circuit and laser technology to project a full-size keyboard that performs exactly like a real one.  Its direction technology, based on optical recognition, enables users to tap the images of the keys, complemented with the realistic tapping sound, and then feed the commands into the compatible PDAs, Smartphones, lap-top or personal computers.

i.Tech Dynamic General Manager Patrick Tsang said applications of VKB are limitless.  "It could, for example, revolutionise sterile and medical environments as well as other multi-media and industrial applications," he said, "We have not come across anything comparable in the world."  For the mobile communications and consumer electronics industries, it represents a major breakthrough.

Initially, sales of VKB to consumers will be through a website especially created by Avenir.  Distribution will be rolled out into retail channels as production increases and new versions come on stream.

North London-based Avenir Telecom UK Limited is part of the international Avenir Telecom Group.  It is one of this country’s leading distributors for mobile phone networks Vodafone, Orange, O2, T-Mobile and 3, major mobile phone manufacturers and accessories and its own Top Suxess accessories brand.