Optimus Keyboard
The Optimus keyboard, apparently a prototype for a patent-pending keyboard where each key is a small screen that can display literally anything, is the dictionary illustration of "Why didn't I think of that?" One hopes it sees production, that the production model is as compelling from a tactile perspective as from a visual one, and that it's less than $1,000.
On the subject of innovative input devices, see also the DX1 Input System.
On the subject of prototypes for things that are great ideas, see also Clocky.
Comments
what about the USB fondue? that's another great idea... (snicker, snicker)
There were a couple of threads about this on slashdot.org. The Optimus is a concept computer model/rendering of a product idea -- there isn't a prototype. That said, somebody at the company thinks that it can be made and sold for some half-reasonable price (like $200-$300, maybe?).
Actually, I did think of it. But I was thinking of using a variant of electronic paper. And I didn't tell anybody about it. What with all the extra symbols et al keyboards access these days, something like this would be dang useful.
Especially for those of us who don't care for the inflated prices of dedicated Dvorak keyboards.