X-Type Android Keyboard

Overview

The X-Type layout existed only as a design until this app made it usable on a phone. Built by learning Android's InputMethodService API from tutorials and translating the X-Type key position spec into Android XML keyboard layout files. The app registers as a system-level input method, allowing X-Type typing across every app on the device — the first step in a multi-OS rollout that eventually reached 213 WPM.

Tech

Java with Android's InputMethodService API implements the IME lifecycle and key-event routing to the active text field. XML keyboard layout files define the X-Type row and key geometry. The app installs via sideloaded APK and registers with Android's InputMethodManager as a selectable keyboard.