Virtual Keyboard

A virtual keyboard is a software component that displays an on-screen keyboard, allowing users to input text without a physical keyboard. It is commonly used in touchscreen devices, accessibility tools, and security applications to prevent keylogging. Virtual keyboards can include features like predictive text, gesture typing, and customizable layouts.

Also known as: On-screen keyboard, Soft keyboard, OSK, Screen keyboard, Touch keyboard

Why learn Virtual Keyboard?

Developers should learn about virtual keyboards when building applications for touchscreen devices (e.g., mobile apps, kiosks) or implementing accessibility features for users with motor impairments. They are also essential in security-sensitive environments, such as banking websites, to mitigate risks from hardware keyloggers by providing a secure input method.

Learning Resources

• docs: MDN Web Docs: Virtual Keyboard API
• docs: Android Developers: Create an Input Method
• docs: iOS Human Interface Guidelines: Custom Keyboards
• docs: W3C: Virtual Keyboard Module
• video: YouTube: Building a Virtual Keyboard in JavaScript