It looks like Apple has hidden a one-handed keyboard in their iOS software, this was recently discovered by developer Steve Troughton-Smith.
The new hidden keyboard was discovered in Apple’s Xcode and this can be seen in the video below which was posted on Twitter.
Video or it didn’t happen: (very hard to engage in the Simulator with a mouse cursor) pic.twitter.com/vw2wpCgiLJ
— Steve T-S (@stroughtonsmith) October 19, 2016
The Discovery of the One-Handed Keyboard
The discovery of the one-handed keyboard by Steve Troughton-Smith has sparked significant interest among iOS users and developers alike. This hidden feature, found within Apple’s Xcode development environment, suggests that Apple has been experimenting with ways to make typing on larger iPhones more manageable with one hand. The video shared by Troughton-Smith on Twitter demonstrates the keyboard in action, albeit with some difficulty due to the use of a mouse cursor in the simulator.
The one-handed keyboard appears to be designed to shift the keys closer to one side of the screen, making it easier for users to type with just one hand. This could be particularly useful for users of larger iPhone models, such as the iPhone 7 Plus, who may find it challenging to reach all the keys with one hand.
Potential Benefits and Future Implementation
While it is not clear whether Apple plans to officially introduce this feature in a future iOS update, the potential benefits are evident. A one-handed keyboard could greatly enhance the user experience for those who often find themselves needing to type with one hand, such as when holding a coffee cup or navigating public transportation.
Moreover, the inclusion of a one-handed keyboard could make iPhones more accessible to users with disabilities or those who have difficulty using both hands. This aligns with Apple’s ongoing commitment to accessibility, as seen in their other features like VoiceOver and AssistiveTouch.
In addition to the practical benefits, the discovery of this hidden feature highlights Apple’s continuous efforts to innovate and improve their software. Even though the one-handed keyboard is not currently active, its presence in the code suggests that Apple is exploring various ways to enhance the usability of their devices.
As soon as we get some more details, we will let you guys know. It will be interesting to see if Apple decides to activate this feature in a future iOS update or if it will remain a hidden gem within the code.
Source Steve Troughton-Smith, Engadget
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