May 2, 2024

Spike Protective Case Adds a Real Keyboard to Your iPhone [Video]

Posted July 8, 2012 at 8:05am by iClarified · 28808 views
Spike is a protective case that adds a physical keyboard to your iPhone. Created by Cody and Robert Solomon, the case is being funded via Kickstarter.

It has taken us over two years to develop our proprietary TypeSmart keyboard technology (patent pending). This technology allowed us to create a keyboard for Spike, that in contrast to any other product, doesn't require plugging in, Bluetooth, or any external power source. An additional benefit derived from this technology, is that unlike typing on the iPhone's touchscreen, if you have longer fingernails or even if wearing gloves you can still type and text like a champ using Spike's keyboard! Importantly, it let us design a full-function keyboard that is less than ¼ inch thick, enabling us to integrate the keyboard into a protective case, while maintaining the elegance and sleek form factor of your iPhone.

There are three versions of the Spike case:

Spike¹ is a combination keyboard and protective case that can be easily installed. You can rotate the bottom section of the case with the keyboard, to the back or the front of the iPhone, for storing in either typing or full-screen mode.

Spike² differs from Spike¹ in user convenience features and overall appearance. Its industrial-strength case protects your iPhone and incorporates a unique and specially-designed asymmetrical 360 degree hinge. This hinge enables you to quickly toggle the keyboard on and off the screen for full-screen access while you are typing. In addition, it also allows you to fold and stow the keyboard in a flush pocket in the rear of the case when you've finished typing.

The Limited Edition Spike³ is similar in design to Spike², but with an all-aluminum, antenna-neutral case including the TypeSmart keyboard that is easily stowed out of the way when not needed.

You can currently pledge $20 for a Spike1 or $40 for a Spike2. The Spike3 is a $150 pledge but comes with a Spike1 as well. So far the case has raised $15,877 of its $75,000 goal with 34 days left to go.

Take a look at the video below for more info.

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