Synaptics Incorporated announced the introduction of a MobileTouch FlexPad solution for Pantech's PG-2800 mobile phone.

The PG-2800 handset allows users to write text messages by moving their finger across the surface of the mechanical keypad, as an alternative to pressing the keys. Beside mechanical buttons and switches, the MobileTouch FlexPad features a capacitive sensor that translates finger movements into text or navigation, while preserving the tactile feedback of the buttons. The thickness, size and shape of the sensors are customizable to fit many types of keypads. FlexPad offers an intuitive and efficient way to create text messages and navigate through menus to quickly access data such as entries in a directory. In addition, FlexPad does not disrupt the usability of the mechanical keypad and is immune to moisture, dirt and surface scratches.

"Our FlexPad solution for the Pantech PG-2800 mobile phone demonstrates the ability of Synaptics' MobileTouch solutions to simplify character entry and navigation," said Clark Foy, Synaptics' vice president of marketing. "Our thin, robust FlexPad does not impact the mechanical keypad look and feel that users are comfortable with, while enabling new and simpler ways to interact with the phone. As an example, users can quickly access the 'T's' in their phone directory simply by writing a 'T' across the keypad."

"With the PG-2800, we wanted to create the stylish mobile phone design that this dynamic marketplace demands, in combination with a highly functional interface capability," said Steven Kim, Pantech's Director of Product Planning. "Synaptics' sensing algorithms in the MobileTouch FlexPad recognize finger movements, and the phone seamlessly translates the movements into characters. The FlexPad enables these functions while preserving the sleek, attractive form factor and durability that has differentiated our company's products since the 90's."

The Pantech PG-2800 mobile phone is currently available in Russia.