OLED keyboard goes on sale

Three key mini Optimus from Art. Lebedev gets launch date

2 February 2006 13:18 GMT / By Stuart Miles

Last year we wrote about a new OLED keyboard that would allow you to change keys at the press of a button by simply changing the character the key displayed.

While we are still waiting for the full sized Qwerty keyboard, the company behind the idea has launched a three key version to keep us wanting more.

The Optimus mini is an auxiliary keyboard with three keys, each complete with an OLED screen displaying the current function such as shortcuts to applications, or specific tools within a programme that will connect to a PC via USB.

The keyboard is placed either horizontally or vertically and the images displayed on the keys are set using the accompanying Optimus Configurator software.

Powered by Organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) Art. Lebedev believes the screens will last for 5000 hours of continuous use (after that they don't die but become dimmer). Or around three years with typical usage.

The mini keyboard comes with everything you need to get you going although currently the software is only compatible with the Windows operating system.

The price of the keyboard is a rather steep $100 if you pre-order and the company say that after this date the price will go up.

Those keen enough to place an order can expect to get their mini Optimus' sometime after May 15.

more information can be found at artlebedev.com

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