We’ve all seen touchscreen interfaces that dynamically change according to the phone feature being used. In fact, that’s the whole point in having a touchscreen. But, the Samsung Alias2 U750 may just be the first cellphone we’ve seen with dynamically morphing individual keys. Little is known about the Samsung Alias2, but the unreleased handset reportedly features some type of dynamic keypad layout. The physical keys remain the same, but each key is capable of displaying different labels. Opening the Alias2’s dual-hinged flip vertically reveals a keypad with standard numeric labels. Opening the Alias2 horizontally prompts the Alias2 to re-assign each key for QWERTY use.
Motorola has been dabbling in morphing keypad design as well. Motorola’s ModeShit keypad design uses various backlit icons on a flat keypad to morph the keypad from the standard numeric setup to a media-friendly setup. Samsung’s dynamic key technology is reportedly different. We’re hearing that some sort of passive, e-Ink type of system is being used here. It’s unclear if each key represents a physical hard-key or if the entire keypad is comprised of a some sort of touch-sensitive panel.
Nevertheless, the Samsung Alias2 has been confirmed for Verizon Wireless and we’re looking forward putting hands on the device at CTIA Las Vegas 2009!
[Via: PhoneArena]