IdeaWell

Project ideas from Hacker News discussions.

Show HN: I spent 2 years designing a mechanical Magic Keyboard

Original Article

Hacker News Discussion

📝 Discussion Summary (Click to expand)

Prevalent Themes

1. Praise for the design and website

"Wow, beautiful. Both the site and the keyboard. I put a deposit down." – johng
"Thank you so much! ... Glad you like the website too, I put a lot of effort into it." – aemerson_
"This looks wonderful." – sssilver

2. Desire for a fingerprint/Touch ID sensor

"I’m assuming it’s not possible for it to include a fingerprint sensor?" – charrondev
"Unfortunately not possible, at least not securely... we could include a fingerprint sensor, but it would never be able to work with things like Apple Pay." – aemerson_
"Love this. I would love to see a fingerprint sensor... it’s a deal‑breaker for me." – splittydev

3. Ergonomic and layout requests (split, numpad, tilt, blank caps)

"Great work! Have you, or do you intend to, write about the process...?" – swingboy (numbers critique)
"I would love to see this in split keyboard format... there are hardly any good split mechanical wireless keyboards." – markbao
"Would be neat if in the future the M‑Dial slot could be used for a fingerprint reader or something else. Swappable items in that slot." – johng
"I would prefer a bigger wireless box as well." – cafebeen

4. Price and manufacturing feasibility concerns

"The price seems quite low for what you get... I hope you can make a profit after everything is said and done at that price!" – johng
"Unfortunately not possible... We have delayed announcing Altar II for a long time because we wanted to be absolutely certain it was manufacturable..." – aemerson_
"I am sure there are afficionados... $349 for a keyboard is crazy. I am not sure what you get in return for such a price.." – bsoles
"We have spent a lot of time and effort finding manufacturing partners... the final retail price is $349. the $249 price is for early pre‑orders only." – aemerson_

🚀 Project Ideas

[Modular Touch ID Slot Kit]

Summary

  • [A plug‑in fingerprint module that fits the side slot of Altar II, giving macOS Touch ID‑style unlock without a full redesign.]
  • [Enables secure authentication and Apple Pay‑compatible use cases for third‑party keyboards.]

Details

Key Value
Target Audience Mac power users, mechanical‑keyboard enthusiasts, accessibility seekers
Core Feature Swappable fingerprint sensor module with secure element that emulates a smart‑card reader
Tech Stack STM32 MCU, ATECC608A secure element, ZMK firmware integration, USB‑C power delivery
Difficulty Medium
Monetization Revenue-ready: $79 one-time purchase

Notes

  • ["I’d love a fingerprint sensor – cafebeen"]
  • [Creates a modular accessory ecosystem and fuels discussion on retrofitting existing keyboards]

[Side‑Slot Expansion Pack]

Summary

  • [A set of interchangeable hardware modules (USB hub, extra keypad, NFC reader) that slot into the same side cavity as the fingerprint module.]
  • [Allows users to customize their keyboard’s functionality without buying a new device.]

Details

Key Value
Target Audience Power users, tinkerers, developers who need extra ports or specialized inputs
Core Feature Mechanical and electrical connector system for hot‑swappable modules
Tech Stack Precision‑machined aluminum housing, gold‑plated contacts, optional Bluetooth Low Energy for status LEDs
Difficulty High
Monetization Revenue-ready: $149 kit (includes hub, keypad, NFC module)

Notes

  • ["The side‑slot could finally host a fingerprint reader or something else – johng"]
  • [Opens a marketplace for third‑party module designs, driving community innovation]

[Open Config Hub for ZMK Keyboards]

Summary

  • [A web‑based, open‑source configuration editor that lets users design layers, map the dial, and set haptic feedback patterns for ZMK‑based keyboards.]
  • [Exports JSON configs that flash directly to the device, eliminating vendor lock‑in.]

Details

Key Value
Target Audience Developers, power typists, community modders, Linux/macOS switchers
Core Feature Drag‑and‑drop layer builder, real‑time preview, one‑click firmware flash
Tech Stack React front‑end, Node.js API, ZMK firmware integration, GitHub Pages hosting
Difficulty Low
Monetization Hobby

Notes

  • ["Everything lives on the keyboard itself… firmware will be open‑sourced – aemerson_"]
  • [Encourages community contributions and ensures long‑term usability across OS updates]

[International Layout Keycap Service]

Summary

  • [On‑demand custom keycap production for ISO, ANSI, and region‑specific layouts, including extra symbols and blank options.]
  • [Integrates with pre‑order to let buyers select their preferred layout before production.]

Details

Key Value
Target Audience International users, macOS ISO layout seekers, accessibility advocates
Core Feature Online configurator that generates STL files for 3D‑printed or doubleshot keycaps with custom legends
Tech Stack Shopify storefront, Fusion 360 modeling, SLA printing, quality‑control workflow
Difficulty Medium
Monetization Revenue-ready: $12 per keycap set (incl. shipping)

Notes

  • ["ISO layout is a must for me – Scarbutt"]
  • [Fills an underserved market and sparks discussion on inclusive keyboard design]

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