Adesso's AKB-440 keyboard gets integrated trackpad

Look, we're not going to say that the famed keyboard-mouse tandem is going anywhere soon, but we will say that there are certainly occasions where having to use a separate critter is a real pain. For those times when having mousing abilities right on the keyboard just seem more "right," there's the Adesso AKB-440. Aimed directly at HTPC users and the like, this rather vanilla looking keyboard spruces things up with a GlidePoint-enabled pad that puts your standalone mouse out of work. If your imagination is running wild with how this thing could revolutionize your life (or at least improve the feasibility of a living room PC), feel free to snag one now for $59.99.

[Via HotHardware]

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 1:31AM]

engadgeteers: is this better or worse than the integrated ball keyboards?

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 1:44AM]

I keep all my balls integrated.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 2:19AM]

i got your ball right here! I lost the other one...
*crys*

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 1:37AM]

I don't think the keyboard and mouse will be around forever... but i don't think thi'll be the thing to replace it.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 9:01AM]

Wacom will make the touchs screens on mobiles for everyone and the keyboard graphics will be accurate (with up to 1024 levels of pressure).


Honestly, this is not THAT farfetched.

[MJGAMER 1991 XBL Posted Sep 3rd 2009 11:25AM]

Well not this one, but if they had put the trackpad away from all the buttons, maybe it would work. Right now it's in the middle of a forest, and impossible to use. It they put it out on a palm rest, then I'll try it out. It definitely would make it easier to use a computer hooked up to a tv while on the couch (if it's wireless).

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 1:47AM]

Does the AKB stand for "Another Keyboard "?

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 4th 2009 4:24AM]

This idea was great and amzing at the same time. There are really innovations like this! By the way, if you live in Chicago and love Greek food, then this will make your day – Kronos Gyros is giving out free food. That's right – free gyros from Kronos Gyros. All you have to do is go to the Kronos website and print out the free coupon – then take it to any participating location in the Chicago area, which is featured on the Kronos website. Kronos isn't a restaurant; they are actually a restaurant supply company that specializes in Greek delicacies. (Gyros are particularly succulent when laden with tzatziki and hummus, or baba ganoush…delectable.) So if you want some delicious free Kronos Gyros, get the coupon – it's easier than applying for mortgage loan modification.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 1:52AM]

How bout a lowslung mini joystick for the index finger? that would provide a lot more maneuverability and take up less space. oh, that idea sucks and lenovo already did it. In a world or ever enlarging mousing pads one would think this would be obsolete the day before it came out. What'r you going to mouse with your pinky? So the answer is inevitably going to have to be a sock you put on that lets you mouse with your feet...wait...so cool... OMG!

[StevenW Posted Sep 3rd 2009 1:52AM]

If I remember correctly, cashiers at USPS use something like this.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 3:58AM]

Ummm...it's a USB keyboard, so using it for my HTPC is gonna be a big, fat NO.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 2:05AM]

How about IBM makes a wireless version of their keyboard with a nipple. LIKE DUR!

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 2:06AM]

I hereby nominate the Adesso's AKB-440 Keyboard in the crapgadget hall of fame, all in favor say aye.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 2:25AM]

Looks kinda neat

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 2:53AM]

No need to wait, buddies. Just do this:

1. Go to the Japan iTunes Store.
2. Create a new account without a credit card and enter any Japan address information (I entered the US embassy).
3. Confirm your account via email and voila!
4. Download Skype 7+ hours before everyone else in the US does.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 3:22AM]

WTF.

I feel bad about iPhone haters, cuz its design is being copied and pasted by lazy OEMs into everything! Even keyboards!

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 3:24AM]

Simpsons did it.

Logitech DiNovo Edge already has a trackpad, and looks hella better than this 2x4 painted black.

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 1:49PM]

Exactly what I was thinking.

[Bamboo Posted Sep 3rd 2009 6:15AM]

Logitech makes a few laptops with built in trackpads. I think I would rather buy from them since they are usually pretty good at driver updates.
Here is their bluetooth one for the PS3, but works fine for the PC:
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/gaming/playstation_3/keyboards/devices/3616&cl=us,en

[Jase Posted Sep 3rd 2009 12:56PM]

i use one on my HTPC and its great. i wouldn't know what to do with out it.

[Alex Posted Sep 3rd 2009 8:17AM]

My Dell XPS M2010 "laptop" has a detachable bluetooth keyboard in this configuration, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Nothing is more convenient than having a trackpad less than an inch away from your full-sized keyboard. I find myself reaching for the nonexistant trackpad on regular keyboards, and being disappointed when it's not there. Why reach a foot across the desk to get to a mouse when you can have a trackpad right on the keyboard?

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 3rd 2009 10:41AM]

I got one of these with a win98 e-machine. I guess the real upgrade is the usb plug... OLD CRAP!

[(Unverified) Posted Sep 4th 2009 1:08PM]

Any reliable multi-touch keyboards available?