by Computer mouse brand Finalmouse takes customization to an eccentric level by revealing a new keyboard with an interactive display underneath a layer of transparent keys and switches. And the results are quite striking.
Customizing mechanical keyboards is mostly about changing keys or choosing a new color pattern for the RGB LEDs. However, instead of this system called Finalmouse Centerpiece, you can show an animated cityscape at sunset, a space shuttle taking off, or an abstract 3D animation on the screen. Looking announcement video (opens in new tab), these skins can be changed at any time. Some are interactive, as implied earlier. For example, koi fish skin causes the water effect on the screen to ripple every time you press a button, while another makes sparks fly as you type.
The interesting thing about these skins is that their power Unreal Engine 5 (opens in new tab)is a free-to-download 3D graphics rendering tool that has been seen used in tons of video games. Finalmouse states that artists will be allowed to create and upload their own skins on the Centerpiece’s screen or submit them when the Freethinker Portal app on Steam launches. You will be able to download up to three skins to the keyboard and switch between them using the buttons on the side.
The video states that artists can monetize their creations or trade them with friends. How monetization will work is unknown, but Finalmouse talks about some kind of in-app store.
Built-in features
The inside of the keyboard is just as fascinating. Centerpiece has its own CPU and GPU, so it does not take any resources from the computer. It looks like you’ll be able to play games on the keyboard itself. A scene in the announcement shows someone controlling a running lion with arrow keys.
Speaking of which, the switches are not made of plastic, but of a proprietary type of tempered glass called Laminated DisplayCircuit Glass Stack (LDGS), which is enclosed in an aluminum casing. If you’re concerned about brittleness, Finalmouse states that the LDGS can “stand up to heavy abuse…”, if you apparently want to slam the Centerpiece in anger (don’t do that).
Competitive gamers will enjoy the special mechanical switches on the keys. They were developed in conjunction with key key switch brand Gateron to provide fast response times. There will also be another Centerpiece model that comes with the Hall effect. (opens in new tab) Sensors in their keys for users who want that extra speed.
remaining questions
Despite all this information, there are still many questions. For starters, how can people type with this keyboard when it’s completely blank? Maybe a text-style skin? We also don’t know the size of the keyboard, how bright the screen is (although it appears to be dimmable), refresh rate, or even resolution. The Finalmouse Centerpiece launches in early 2023 for $349. Hopefully, we’ll have more information by then.
Until then, be sure to check out TechRadar’s latest updates. best gaming keyboards list for next year. While none are as flashy as the Centerpiece, it’s definitely worth a look.
