Linux Lite Forums

General => Suggestions and Feedback => Topic started by: Chompo on December 15, 2021, 01:43:44 PM

Title: How about adding a native virtual keyboard to Linux Lite?
Post by: Chompo on December 15, 2021, 01:43:44 PM
I just recently had a minor problem with malfunctioning keys in my keyboard and my first instinct as a former/primarily Windows user was to look up for a virtual keyboard under the accessibility menu (then the general menu, then the Help Manual, then Linux Lite Software list), to no avail. I was later able to to install a virtual keyboard thanks to Moltke, who kindly took their time to guide me with a step-by-step installation tutorial through the terminal.

Maybe mine was an unusual issue, but it is my belief virtual keyboards are very a fundamental accessibility feature and should perhaps be shipped with the OS. In case a keyboard malfunctions it can be incredibly hard if not downright impossible to install a virtual keyboard through the terminal if one does not have temporary access to a spare keyboard and/or Internet access. As a matter of fact, as I've been discovering just how handy the terminal can be, I'm convinced a virtual keyboard may be even more valuable on Linux (Lite) than on Windows.

Just to be clear, though, I don't take for granted all the effort that goes into developing this and hope to come off as demanding. I understand it takes time and work to add a new program to an OS, to make it look and feel native and so on. More importantly, I totally understand the importance of a virtual keyboard is just my opinion, an opinion that comes from a very inexperienced user, no less. And if I'm the first one complaining, this is likely not a priority anyway.
Title: Re: How about adding a native virtual keyboard to Linux Lite?
Post by: Jerry on December 18, 2021, 04:00:48 PM
Our approach is to one, be very selective about what we include - we need to stay lean and it's very easy to 'blow out' by including everyones suggestions. Two, the application must have wide appeal and usage. Good examples are a Text Editor, Task Manager, Calculator etc. A virtual keyboard would not be classed as an essential need for most users. Cheers.
Title: Re: How about adding a native virtual keyboard to Linux Lite?
Post by: Chompo on December 20, 2021, 07:28:06 PM
That's totally understandable, Mr. Jerry. Accessibility features are, almost by definition, not of widespread use. Thanks for taking your time to reply anyway. Cheers!  :021:
Title: Re: How about adding a native virtual keyboard to Linux Lite?
Post by: TheDead on January 05, 2022, 01:18:12 PM
Hi,

Maybe not integrated has a feature, but having an official suggestion or even better having it in Linux Lite Software has a choice would be great!
Personnaly I use it a lot on login screens, force of habit from the Windows world I guess ;)
Title: Re: How about adding a native virtual keyboard to Linux Lite?
Post by: Jerry on January 11, 2022, 06:21:32 PM
I'll consider the addition to Lite Software. It wouldn't hurt to have some Accessibility software within easy reach.

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Title: Re: How about adding a native virtual keyboard to Linux Lite?
Post by: TheDead on January 15, 2022, 09:23:26 AM
We shall be eternaly grateful O Great and Powerful One!   ;)
(https://c.tenor.com/m1qaF5erEX4AAAAC/cat-animated.gif)