Retro Gaming Keyboard For iOS

The Sinclair ZX Spectrum is something of a legend in computing circles, as it was one of the very first reasonably priced home computers on which it was possible to actually do interesting stuff. By that we mean, of course, it could play games. The 8-bit machine took the UK by storm in the early 80s, and the rubber-keyed compact case is seen as an iconic piece of computer design today.

Now, the original ZX Spectrum is back, or at least it will be next year. However, it won’t be as a computer, but as a Bluetooth keyboard accessory for your iOS device and Apple TV. Produced under licence by Elite Systems, it will look exactly like the Spectrum of old, right down to the classic rubber keys. The idea is, it will link with your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV (using AirPlay), and control a variety of specially produced apps available through the App Store.

Of course, this means games, and if there is one thing the ZX Spectrum is famous for, it’s the many simple, but furiously addictive, titles released for it over the years. Elite has already released a series of ported over Spectrum titles on iOS, under the ZX Spectrum: Elite Collection name, and it has apparently secured several exclusives for release with the Bluetooth keyboard. Playing Spectrum games using a touchscreen is fine, but it’ll never match the tactile experience of using a keyboard, making this particularly exciting news for dedicated retro gamers.

Although it’s possible the Elite Collection games already on sale will be compatible with the Bluetooth keyboard, it’s not certain it’ll happen at launch. Although Elite isn’t promising anything, we hope it’ll offer compatibility with the existing apps from the start, and for free. It would go a long way to increasing the keyboard’s appeal.

The Bluetooth ZX Spectrum keyboard is expected to cost between £40 and £50, which is around $65 to

 $80, and it’s possible to register your interest in it through this website. It appears there’s the possibility of a Kickstarter campaign in the near future, where the keyboard has a projected September 2014 shipping date. However as the project isn’t live yet, this may not be final. We’ll keep you updated.