Google's Gmail Tap
Videos for Engineers

In case you missed the big event, last Sunday Google launched what they consider a disruptive technology with their new Gmail "Tap" cellphone app. Google claims that this new concept is more efficient by virtue of its simpler user interface that uses just two keys rather than the 40 or so normal keys that include one for each letter of the alphabet, numbers, and special characters. Because only two keys are needed, they can be made large enough to press blindly, even while in the user's pocket. Just as texting shortcuts (omg, lmao, cul8r, etc.) speed up typing by fewer characters requires you to learn a new "language," Gmail Tap also requires you to memorize a character set. Once you commit it to memory, though, you're gtg (good to go). This is on the Tap app homepage to extoll its virtues: "Two keys: dot and dash. Space bar: added to increase typing speeds. Multi-email mode: dual threaded keyboard. (Warning: power users only) Predictive text mode: autocomplete re-imagined. Optional audio feedback: engage all your senses." Widespread adoption of the new technology will drive future improvements in the app, like: "Ship to shore mode: activates your phone's flash to communicate with other power users across an ocean (of people). Table tap: microphone enabled off screen tapping. Double-black diamond mode: adds a third, fourth and more keyboards for writing up to 8 messages at once." Go to the Tap website for the "tapping" character cross-reference table. A video promotion that includes demonstrations in various user scenarios is included below.

I'm guessing that Apple will soon follow suit with a compatible app for their iPhones.

Posted April 4, 2012