Google Japan turns rotary phone tech into a functional, slow-speed keyboard

The device operates by translating rotational movement into digital input, a modern twist on the pulse dialing mechanics that once powered telecommunications. Rather than a standard mechanical switch, each dial requires a full rotation to register a character, effectively ensuring that typing speed remains agonizingly slow. The setup even includes a dedicated dial for the return key, maintaining the aesthetic of a hardware-heavy interface from an alternate technological timeline.

Beyond basic typing, the project introduces a physical webcam kill-switch. Much like hanging up a traditional landline to terminate a call, users can disable their video feed during meetings by placing their mouse on a specifically designed stand. While this creation joins a lineage of eccentric Google Japan hardware—including a six-foot-long single-row keyboard and a tea-cup-shaped peripheral—it remains a non-commercial concept. Those determined to embrace this inefficient workflow can find the 3D printer files, PCB layouts, and parts lists on GitHub to assemble the device independently.