In an effort to capture the growing audience out there which yearns for the days where devices had physical controls to them, DIMPLE, Inc. has launched a new product which allows users to add four customizable hardware buttons to Android NFC gadgets.
This NFC sticker gets applied to the back of the device, and the slightly raised buttons (.5mm) can be programmed to perform individual tasks, including launching apps, controlling settings, playing / pausing music, turning on / off a flashlight, and more.
The company also created a plug-in for the sticker, which expands the array of choices beyond the standard selection associated with its out-of-the-box companion app.
Worth noting is that the buttons have braille dimples for convenient fingertip recognition, and are estimated at being able to withstand 2 million clicks. The adhesive backing of the sticker allows for it to be applied anywhere on the device and in terms of power, the sticker actually harvests energy radiated from the phone, so it doesn’t require a battery.
While DIMPLE works with most Android devices, it’s not compatible with the HTC One (M7 and M8). This is due to the device’s metal body and inconveniently located NFC antenna.
The version being released to the public is actually the company’s 12th prototype, with each of the previous models going through ever-so-slight modifications to get it to the point where it can be released to the masses.
DIMPLE will launch its Indiegogo campaign on May 6th in hopes of securing the funds necessary to enter into production. Those who back the campaign with a $27 investment will receive their own DIMPLE sticker at its conclusion.
The sticker is expected to retail for $28.99.
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