Tactus Launches iPad Case With Physical Buttons

Ever wish you could feel the virtual buttons on your tablet? Thanks to a new product Tactus, you can.

California-based tech startup Tactus has unveiled a new case for the iPad Mini that allows users to feel the device’s virtual keys (see image to the right). The case features a transparent screen with small bumps that’s applied over the iPad Mini’s display. When the bumps are aligned with the keys, it allows the user to feel each time he or she presses a key. The case also features a slider on the back that’s used to raise or lower the keypad bumps. If the bumps are too tall to comfortably use, simply lower them. If the bumps are so low that you can barely feel them, raise them.

Tactus’ iPad Mini case doesn’t require batteries, Bluetooth connectivity, USB charge, etc. Once the case is applied to the iPad Mini, it will instantly introduce physical buttons to the device.

The most impressive feature of Tactus’ new “Phorm” case is its use liquid fluid to inflate and deflate the keys. The panel contains invisible fluid that’s used in conjunction with the slider located on the back of the case. When you raise the slider, the buttons fill with fluid. When you slide the switch back, however, the buttons deflate to the point where they are no longer visible. This means you can essentially “turn off” the buttons to watch movies, read, or perform other operations.

So, what’s the purpose of a case that allows you to feel the virtual keys on a touchscreen device? According to Tactus, typing on a smooth display doesn’t provide the user with a satisfying experience. However, adding physical touch creates a more intuitive experience for users. Tactus CEO and cofounder Dr. Craig Ciesla also cites the growing trend for touchscreen-based software on the iPad.

“There’s increasingly more productivity apps going onto tablet and smartphone devices. The Microsoft Office suite was released on iOS, showing the need for better productivity on these devices. The software is getting there; we’re about improving the hardware side of that,” said Tactus CEO and cofounder Dr. Craig Ciesla in an interview.

The Tactus iPad Mini case is expected to go on sale later this summer for $150 ($100 for pre-orders).

What do you think of the new Tactus case?