Abstract: Alternative textual interpretations of each sequence of inputs detected within an auto-correcting keyboard region are determined. Actual keystroke contract locations may occur outside the boundaries of specific keyboard key regions associated with the actual characters of word interpretations proposed for selection. The distance from each contact location to each corresponding intended character may increase with the expected frequency of the intended word. An intended word is selected from among generated interpretations and is automatically accepted for output.

Abstract: A system associated with a text entry application, such as email or instant messaging, comprises an optional onscreen representation of a circular keyboard, a list of potential linguistic object matches, and a message area where the selected words are entered. The circular keyboard is manipulated via a hardware joystick or game-pad with analog joystick or omni-directional rocker switch built therein. The user points the joystick in the general direction of the desired letter, and then continues pointing roughly to each letter in the desired word. Once all letters have been roughly selected, buttons are used to select a specific word from the list of potential matches and send the selected word to the message area.