Product designer Justin Mitchell has introduced the Amber KB1, a portable clamshell keyboard designed to transform smartphones into functional writing tools. Compatible with iPhones and Samsung Galaxy S series, the keyboard enables users to type efficiently, providing a mechanical, laptop-like experience on the go.
A Laptop-Style Keyboard for Smartphones
The Amber KB1 is built with chunky mechanical keys, allowing for tactile feedback without excessive noise. The low-profile linear mechanical switch ensures a balance between the satisfying clack of mechanical keys and a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for use in shared spaces like cafes.
Designed with portability in mind, the Amber KB1 is small enough to fit in a car’s side pocket or a bag, making it convenient for writers, journalists, and professionals who need a reliable keyboard on the move. The device connects via Bluetooth, allowing users to securely dock their phones and start typing instantly.
Premium Build and Ergonomic Adjustability
The Amber KB1’s shell is made from soft-touch plastic, while the top surface features polyurethane synthetic leather embossed with the Amber logo. One of the biggest design challenges was ensuring that the phone stays securely in place while typing. Mitchell addressed this by incorporating a MagSafe-compatible magnet, which locks the phone in place, preventing it from shifting during use.
The hinge mechanism was another key focus in the design process. To offer optimal ergonomics, the top shell extends beyond 90 degrees, allowing for a comfortable viewing angle that reduces strain while typing. Inspired by laptop hinge designs, this feature provides adjustability and stability, ensuring a balanced setup that doesn’t tip over.
Portability and Future Applications
The Amber KB1 is designed for users who want the functionality of a laptop keyboard in a compact form. The keyboard charges via a USB port, ensuring long battery life for extended writing sessions.
Mitchell’s design joins a growing trend of conceptual devices aimed at enhancing mobile productivity. Other recent innovations include an AI-powered diagnostic kit for remote health management and a menopausal treatment service that leverages AI to alleviate symptoms.
As mobile work solutions continue to evolve, Amber KB1 stands out as a practical and stylish tool for anyone looking to write seamlessly, wherever inspiration strikes.