Direction9 Inc., based in California, specializes in creating text input technology for content searches in constrained spaces. Their innovation shrinks the traditional 40-key QWERTY keyboard to the dimensions of a phone keypad. This T9-like Predictive Text technology utilizes only the 5-way directional keys found on remote control devices or through directional gestures. The utility of Predictive Text has been acknowledged by Apple with the inclusion of T9 dialing in their recent iOS 18 update.

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Direction9 has introduced its patented "Auto-Center" and "Auto-Function" features. These features offer a referable center point and familiar function keys, enabling users to locate key positions prior to each entry, thereby enabling "Blind-Typing." Together with a Predictive Text engine, these features render TV Text Input feasible on a phone-sized keypad.

 

Although Predictive Text on 9 keys was previously widespread in cellphones, yet, it is not practical to use on TVs with remote controls due to lack of a referenceable center point. Direction9's innovation has addressed this challenge.

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Coexistence with voice input is essential due to the frequent noise and privacy issues associated with voice commands. Users desire a single, simple hardware control unit that allows for quiet text or command input, ideally without the need to constantly shift their gaze between the control unit and the TV screen to select the correct key. Continuously changing the focus of one's eyesight is exhausting. This cumbersome process is especially true when using a smartphone keypad to input text on a TV that is 10 feet away.

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Our software is designed for compatibility with an extensive array of devices, encompassing TV remote controls, automobile user-input systems, automotive and in-flight entertainment systems, Smart Glasses, AI pins, medical devices, gesture control interfaces, gaming consoles, and beyond. 

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Direction9 aids in the following area:

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1.  Most TV streaming services struggle with effective methods for searching specific content, limiting their potential for revenue generation through advertisements, browsers, media titles, and online shopping. Direction9's innovative solution enhances typing on TVs, driving increased revenue opportunities.

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Many devices incorporate features like Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, and AirPlay to appeal to buyers. We believe Direction9 will become another compelling feature to attract customers.

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2. User Experiences: According to CES media articles, users can grasp Direction9's Auto-Center and Auto-Function features within 30 seconds and fully master them in under 2 minutes.

 

3. Since smart devices already utilize Predictive Text to select and complete keywords on the standard 40-key QWERTY layout, the process is further streamlined with a 9-key layout, significantly enhancing speed and efficiency.

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4. Texting Input Time consists of Key Location Search Time, Cursor Travel Time, Confirming/Execution Time, Correction Time, and Eye Focusing Change Time.

 

Blind-Typing significantly reduces these delays by leveraging Direction9's innovative Auto-Center and Auto-Function features.

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5. Direction9's universal strokes or gesture controls can be integrated for applications such as Smart Watch input, touchpads, or VR/Smart Glass interfaces.

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6. Typing with a remote control has been challenging, leading to the development of supplemental solutions like smartphone keyboard integration or voice input. Direction9 offers a superior alternative, enabling users to input text quietly and conveniently without the need to switch devices.

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