# Apple Adjustable Keyboard > ergonomic keyboard introduced by Apple in 1993 **Wikidata**: [Q4781121](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q4781121) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple_Adjustable_Keyboard) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/apple-adjustable-keyboard ## Summary The Apple Adjustable Keyboard is an ergonomic computer keyboard introduced by Apple in 1993, designed to promote comfortable typing and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries. As one of the earliest mainstream commercial split-keyboard designs, it prioritizes user health by aligning with natural hand and wrist positions through its unique physical layout. ## Key Facts - **Release Year**: Introduced by Apple in 1993. - **Classification**: Instance of a product model and a subclass of ergonomic keyboards. - **Primary Function**: Designed to reduce repetitive strain injury (RSI) and carpal tunnel syndrome. - **Design Feature**: Utilizes a split design to align with natural hand and wrist positions. - **Wikidata Description**: Defined specifically as an "ergonomic keyboard introduced by Apple in 1993." - **Freebase ID**: /m/08kjfb. - **Wikipedia Title**: "Apple Adjustable Keyboard." - **Language Coverage**: Wikipedia articles and resources exist in English (en), Korean (ko), Turkish (tr), and Commons. - **Sitelink Count**: Associated with 4 distinct language sitelinks. - **Commons Category**: Categorized under "Apple Adjustable Keyboard" on Wikimedia Commons. ## FAQs **Q: What was the primary design goal of the Apple Adjustable Keyboard?** A: The device was engineered to minimize physical strain during typing by utilizing a split layout that aligns with natural hand and wrist positions. This design specifically targets the prevention of repetitive strain injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome common among office workers. **Q: How does the Apple Adjustable Keyboard compare to other ergonomic models in history?** A: Released in 1993, it stands as one of the earliest commercial examples of a split ergonomic design, predating later models like the Logitech Wave (2007) and the Model 01 (2017). Its introduction marked a significant early shift toward human-centered design in computing hardware. **Q: In which languages is information about this keyboard available?** A: Documentation and articles regarding the Apple Adjustable Keyboard are available in four languages: English, Korean, Turkish, and on Wikimedia Commons. This multilingual presence highlights its recognition across different global communities. ## Why It Matters The Apple Adjustable Keyboard represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of computer peripherals, shifting the industry focus from purely functional input to user health and well-being. By introducing a split design in 1993, Apple addressed critical musculoskeletal disorders caused by prolonged typing on traditional flat keyboards, setting a precedent for future ergonomic innovations. Its existence validates the importance of human-centered design, demonstrating that hardware can be re-engineered to reduce finger stretching and promote neutral wrist postures. This device laid the groundwork for a diverse ecosystem of ergonomic solutions, influencing subsequent designs like ortholinear grids and curved layouts that continue to mitigate healthcare costs associated with repetitive motion injuries today. ## Notable For - **Historical Significance**: One of the earliest commercial ergonomic keyboards to feature a split design. - **Pioneering Release**: Launched in 1993, establishing a timeline for ergonomic adoption in mainstream computing. - **Health Engineering**: Explicitly constructed to mitigate repetitive strain injury (RSI) and carpal tunnel syndrome. - **Design Innovation**: Introduced a physical layout that prioritizes natural hand alignment over traditional flat aesthetics. - **Categorization**: Recognized in Wikidata and Freebase as a distinct product model under the broader class of ergonomic keyboards. ## Body ### Definition and Classification The Apple Adjustable Keyboard is a specialized input device categorized as a product model and a specific subclass of ergonomic keyboards. Unlike standard flat keyboards, it is defined by its split configuration, which is intended to align with the natural anatomy of the human hand and wrist. This classification places it within the broader domain of computer hardware designed to promote user health and efficiency. Its identity is formally recorded in knowledge bases such as Wikidata and Freebase, where it is distinguished by the ID /m/08kjfb. ### Historical Context and Release Introduced by Apple in 1993, the Apple Adjustable Keyboard emerged during a period when the health implications of prolonged computer use were gaining attention. It stands as a historical benchmark, being one of the first mainstream attempts to commercialize a split ergonomic design. This release predates other notable ergonomic milestones, such as the Logitech Wave Keyboard in 2007 and the mechanical Model 01 in 2017. The 1993 launch date marks the beginning of a lineage of devices that prioritize injury prevention over traditional form factors. ### Design Philosophy and Health Impact The core philosophy behind the Apple Adjustable Keyboard is the reduction of physical strain through alternative layouts. By separating the keyboard into distinct sections, the design encourages a more natural shoulder and wrist alignment, reducing the need for finger extension and alternating hand use. This approach directly targets the prevention of repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and carpal tunnel syndrome, which are prevalent among office workers and gamers. The device reflects a shift in computing priorities, emphasizing long-term user well-being and sustainable work habits rather than familiar aesthetics. ### Digital Presence and Documentation Information regarding the Apple Adjustable Keyboard is preserved across multiple digital platforms and languages. It maintains a dedicated Wikipedia title and is categorized under "Apple Adjustable Keyboard" on Wikimedia Commons. The entity is linked to four specific language versions, including English, Korean, and Turkish, ensuring accessibility for a diverse global audience. These digital records, including its Wikidata description and Freebase identifier, serve as the primary sources for verifying its specifications and historical significance. ### Relationship to the Ergonomic Ecosystem As a subclass of ergonomic keyboards, the Apple Adjustable Keyboard shares its fundamental goals with other notable models like the Microsoft ergonomic series, ortholinear keyboards, and the Alice layout. While it differs in specific mechanical implementation from later membrane or mechanical variants, it shares the common objective of minimizing musculoskeletal disorders. Its existence validates the broader category of ergonomic input devices, proving that split and curved layouts are viable solutions for reducing finger movement and improving typing accuracy.