Keyboard layouts

Physical keyboards

The only keyboard layout currently available for NewEng can be downloaded from my GitHub page.

• Only works on Windows (so far; Linux and macOS versions coming soon).

• Latest version is 6.4.

• Alt Gr key usage is required. AFAIK, the Right Alt key does send the same keycode as Alt Gr.

• Information on FarrAndDroid GitBook page.

• GitHub links:

  • GitHub repo page,

  • Direct download page.

Physical layout types

Use AltGr to access 3rd level on regular QWERTY layout

• Works with normal keyboards.

• Clunky to use.

• Retains number row.

Use number row for 11 new letters (including ` key)

• Works with normal keyboards.

• Displaces number & symbol row:

  • Requires NumPad for easy number input.

  • Use AltGr to access standard symbols.

  • Can use AltGr+Shift for numbers if you don't have a NumPad.

• Easier to use than AltGr version, but takes time to learn the new letters' positions.

• Still requires AltGr for æ, œ, и and some diacritics (on u, i, o, b, m, -, ;, ', ]).

• Can use AltGr to access some diacritiqued letters: ž s̈ g̊ g̃ ǧ ť.

• Hwair ƕ and Echo ʞ are also available on w and k, respectively.

• F# keys are not used much these days so could feasibly be used as the number row instead.

Physical keyboard with another row

• Requires a new physical keyboard device to be manufactured.

• Visually clear, no need to memorize where each letter is hiding.

• Minor skill adaptation required, number+symbol row has moved upwards.

• Can bear layout parity with a virtual touchscreen keyboard.

Virtual keyboards (touchscreen)

1. Keyboard Designer — website

   1. Free to design your own keyboard layouts

   2. Paid version required to be able to import other creators' designs. (Low cost - view details)

   3. Download my keyboard design from my GitHub (out of date; don't use yet!)

2. HeliBoard — github site — F-Droid store

   1. HeliBoard is pretty good but I haven't yet made a fully customised layout that suits NewEng.

I haven't yet found another keyboard app that allows me to design my own layout.