World's First USB-C Connected Magic Keyboard! Fully Customizable | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

In this video, the creator takes apart a Magic Keyboard and hacks it to create a fully customizable keyboard using a custom board and Teensyduino.

Key Insights

• 💻 The magic keyboard for the iPad Pro is expensive and lacks customization options, but the speaker aims to change that by hacking into the keyboard's internals.
• 💡 Despite being non-repairable, the keyboard's internals include a surprise aluminum frame, which could potentially lead to the creation of a fully aluminum version.
• ⚙️ A daughter board connects all the necessary components to the keyboard, and careful removal of cables and components is required for customization.
• 🔌 A custom board, the teensyduino, is used to convert the ribbon cable from the keyboard into USB input, allowing for programming and customization.
• 🔀 The custom software on the teensyduino needs to be programmed to convert the raw signals from the keyboard into recognizable keystrokes.
• 🎵 The modified magic keyboard still retains functionality for the trackpad, power delivery, and even the backlight, making it a fully functioning USB keyboard.
• 💡 While this project is not a solution for everyone, it showcases the potential for customization and reveals that the magic keyboard isn't as "magical" as it seems.
• 🔁 The speaker plans to continue exploring other projects and ideas utilizing the hacked magic keyboard, and encourages viewers to share their thoughts and suggestions.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: How does the creator customize the Magic Keyboard and what challenges do they face?

The creator customizes the Magic Keyboard by disassembling it, fabricating a custom board, and programming the Teensyduino. They face challenges such as breaking a capacitor and soldering small pins accurately.

Q: What is the purpose of the aluminum frame underneath the rubberized finish of the Magic Keyboard?

The aluminum frame serves to protect the electronics underneath and adds stability to the keyboard.

Q: Can the Magic Keyboard still be used as intended after the customization process?

Yes, the Magic Keyboard can be reconnected and used as intended, with all original functionalities intact.

Q: What devices can the fully customizable Magic Keyboard be used with?

The fully customizable Magic Keyboard can be used with a MacBook, Windows PC, and even a Samsung tablet.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The creator disassembles a Magic Keyboard to understand its internals and finds an aluminum frame underneath the rubberized finish.

• They carefully remove the bottom panel and identify the daughter board responsible for key signals.

• After fabricating a custom board and programming the Teensyduino, they successfully create a fully customizable Magic Keyboard that works with various devices.