US Patent 9535603 Columnar fitted virtual keyboard

A method and system of inputting text having a virtual keyboard on a touch sensitive input panel or display screen. The virtual keyboard includes a set of key elements such that each letter of the alphabet may be input by at least one key element. The present method arranges and sizes the virtual keys in a columnar layout organized around the size, shape, and angle of the user's fingers. The columnar layout overlays a background containing additional keys. The user can interactively adjust the layout to adapt to changes in hand properties. For smaller screens having space restrictions, the layout may be strategically masked to efficiently use available space while still preserving various benefits of the system.