Typing on a TV has always been a hassle. The on-screen keyboards are often confusing and slow, making it tough for users to type efficiently.
But at CES 2025, a company called Direction9 introduced a new solution that could change how we type on TVs. Their system is based on the old T9 typing method, which was popular on cellphones with number-based keypads.
Direction9’s keyboard design uses a three-by-three grid, similar to T9, where multiple letters are assigned to each number.
The cursor starts in the middle of the grid, and users click around to select letters. Once a letter is chosen, the cursor returns to the center, making it easy to find the next letter with just a click or two.
The system also includes a “smart” mode, where the keyboard predicts the word you’re typing. For example, after selecting “abc,” then “def,” and “def” again, the system might guess you’re typing “bed.”
If you prefer manual typing, you can turn off the prediction feature and select letters directly from a new array that pops up.
In addition to the letters, the keyboard has keys for Enter, Space, and Back, all placed around the grid. The best part? You don’t need to press Enter—just move the cursor over to it, and it automatically submits.
While Direction9’s keyboard is still in the early stages, CEO Leon Chang mentioned they’re in talks with companies to bring it to streaming apps and smart TVs.
The system may not be perfect yet, but it’s certainly faster and more intuitive than the traditional on-screen keyboard.
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