Dell has filed patents for implementing haptic feedback technology in future keyboards and palm rests. Dell is typically known for supplying PC components and laptops to offices around the world, but it also owns the popular Alienware brand of devices for gamers.
The debate over which input method to use when playing video games has been going on for a very long time. Both sides have valid strengths and weaknesses when it comes to this debate. Extremely opinionated YouTuber Dr. Disrespect gave his two cents to the controller vs. keyboard and mouse debate when it comes to certain games. However, the Dell team may wish to settle this dispute with a new patent.
The patent aims to provide real-time feedback when users perform certain functions, such as pressing a laptop trackpad. The list goes deeper, trying to implement feedback at specific points in the game environment. When the player is playing the game, his palm rest provides feedback such as explosions and when car crashes are detected in the game itself.
For some gamers, the idea of real-time his feedback, especially in racing games and first-person shooters, would be welcome. After all, console players can feel weapon recoil from the controller. The advanced haptics of the PlayStation 5’s Dualsense controller further enhance the gaming experience, while pressure-sensitive triggers add another layer of realism to your games.
Given the precise nature of the mouse and keyboard, this can certainly put some gamers off. This is especially important when playing online shooters such as An unfair rumble at the wrong time can mean the difference between winning the game or being eliminated early. It’s possible that gamers won’t see this kind of technology for a while, but it’s still exciting to see what kind of ideas they have in mind to promote the gaming scene… although it’s more immersive. Dell isn’t the first to think of a way to play.
A group of former Razer designers have created a replacement for his gaming keyboard with motion controllers. How well it works remains to be seen, but with the potential for haptic feedback on the keyboard, it looks like Dell’s research team is looking to fix the keyboard controller issue once and for all.