Researchers have built an augmented reality (AR) device that lets users type on everyday objects. PropType, overlays a virtual keyboard onto items such as bottles and  books, while fixing persistent AR issues — slow typing and arm fatigue caused by floating interfaces. PropType uses a handheld object as the base for a keyboard, giving users tactile feedback. 

Virtual keyboards so far demanded mid-air typing and constant visual focus. PropType fixes that by shifting input back to the physical world. It places a keyboard layout on a real object and adapts to its shape, helping it work in many settings where external keyboards are not practical.