If you’ve ever wanted to play the keyboard using actual cats, then you’re going to want to check out MaKey MaKey. This playfully named DIY keyboard kit was created by Eric Rosenbaum and Jay Silver of MIT. MaKey MaKey (Make + Key) lets you turn almost anything into a keyboard.
To create a custom keyboard with MaKey MaKey, all you need to do is find an object that conducts electricity. Everything from Play-Doh to plants and bananas will work. Once you connect your custom keyboard to the circuit board (via alligator clips) and to your computer (via a USB cable) you’re ready to go. Since the kit replaces your keyboard and mouse, you can do anything and everything with it, from playing games to writing an essay. MaKey MaKey has reached full funding on Kickstarter and will be available for purchase (for $35) starting August 2012.
What's Driving This Trend
- DIY Electronics
- The rise of DIY electronic kits like MaKey MaKey allows for creative customization and innovation in creating unique computer peripherals.
- Alternative Interfaces
- MaKey MaKey's ability to turn any conductive object into a keyboard and mouse opens up opportunities for alternative interaction interfaces in technology.
- Creative Gaming
- MaKey MaKey enables players to incorporate unconventional objects, such as fruits or plants, into gaming experiences, sparking a trend of inventive game controls.
Who This Affects Most
- Consumer Electronics
- The consumer electronics industry can leverage the trend of DIY electronics and offer customizable computer peripherals and interactive devices for users.
- Education
- The education industry can integrate DIY electronic kits like MaKey MaKey in classrooms to promote hands-on learning and creativity in students.
- Gaming
- The gaming industry can explore alternative interfaces and creative gaming experiences by incorporating MaKey MaKey-like technologies into their games, offering unique and immersive gameplay.
