Ergonomic mini keyboard adapter for smartphones

thingiverse

I'm often using apps on-the-go that are a lot easier to use with a physical keyboard, like ssh terminals for example. However, I had a tough time finding phone-sized keyboard 'cases' and the Bluetooth keyboards had poor ergonomics - I had to put both the keyboard and my phone on a table. I found this mini Bluetooth keyboard; however, I still needed a way to attach it to my phone so I could type as I go. Rather than going with anything slide- or fold-out (which is cool but bulky), I just created a couple of elastic strap attachments that I superglued to the back of the keyboard. I can then easily slip the whole arrangement over the phone for when I need it - I'm fine working with half a screen at a time - and I can type with both hands. Significantly, this puts the center of gravity of the phone close to that of the keyboard which means I can still use it one-handed (for example, when hanging on for dear life on the bus); it also doesn't require any bulky odd mods to existing phone cases which may catch on things. In addition to printing two of the keyboard strap holders, you'll need 2mm elastic band cut a few cm longer than the width of the keyboard, as well as some needle and thread to close the elastic around the parts. Plain old PLA seems to adhere well to the cheap keyboard case with superglue. Also, yes, OMGWTFBBQ portrait mode - THE HORROR!