Hasta La Gadget!

Elecom has just released what is deemed to be the first NFC keyboard in the world for Android-powered devices, where those who prefer far more complex model numbers can refer to it as the TK-FNS040BK. This particularly tiny keyboard relies on the NFC IP-1 protocol which will allow you to transform your mobile device into a real and compact productivity center. The concept is pretty interesting, but execution? Well, sad to say, the Elecom NFC keyboard does not seem to offer much right from the get go. You are restricted by Elecom to an extremely short list of Japanese carriers and their range of compatible devices. I guess the only thing going for it would be the novelty factor.

By Ubergizmo. Related articles: Keymonk Keyboard for Android is like Swyping with two fingers, Elecom wireless projection keyboard comes with mouse mode,

NFC is used primarily for enjoyable activities, like buying things, sharing content and making QR codes feel old. But Japanese company Elecom is looking to change all that with a compact keyboard that exploits NFC for productivity. The silicon menace requires a companion app and is compatible with Android phones running Gingerbread (2.3.4) and up. If the bundled case had you sold on the peripheral, you may want to reconsider. The retail price is a sizeable 18,690 yen (approximately $240), and what’s worse, the battery is neither rechargeable nor replaceable, so you’ll have to bin it after the stated six months to a year 18 months (eight hours a day) of life. Still interested? Then head over the break for a video demo from Norwegian co-development company one2TOUCH.

Continue reading Throwaway NFC keyboard improves productivity, reduces bank balance

Filed under: Cellphones, Peripherals

Throwaway NFC keyboard improves productivity, reduces bank balance originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 17:08:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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While for most people, myself including, NFC was the next holy grail in mobile payment, some decided that NFC could to much more, like today’s new NFC Keyboard for Android smartphones.
Announced at 18,690 Yen, the TK-FNS040BK, is a small keyboard using NFC IP-1 protocol and that let you turn your mobile device in a real and compact productivity center.
While we like the concept behind the TK-FNS040BK it unfortunately do not deliver much! Indeed it will require/forced you to use at first …

Elecom is set to drop their newest folding Bluetooth 3.0 keyboard, the TK-FBP038. Powered by 2x AAA batteries, this travel-friendly keyboard features a 2.4GHz radio frequency (works up to 10 meters), 80 keys and is compatible with Bluetooth 3.0 enabled devices such as iPad, iPhone 4, PS3 and PC. The TK-FBP038 will go on sale from early August for 14,595 Yen (about $185). [Elecom]

Elecom has also introduced a new wired mouse to its range called the M-BL16UB. This plug and play mouse features a 3-button design, a BlueLED sensor, a 1000dpi resolution and a USB 2.0 connector. Available in black, blue, pink, red, silver and white color options, the M-BL16UB will start shipping from late July for 1,470 Yen (about $18). [Elecom]