2-Thumbs Typing: A Novel Bimanual Text Entry Method in Virtual Reality Environments

We propose a new technique named 2-Thumbs Typing (2TT) enabling text entry with a touchpad in HTC VIVE controller using two thumbs. 2TT method works similarly with bimanual handwriting input but using new designed uni-stroke gestures considering only strokes’ direction. We first design a set of gestures and improve them to finish the final design by a preliminary study through memory, performance efficiency and ease of use. The initial results show that the 2TT technique is easy and comfortable to use, no additional equipment required and supporting eyes-free entry. 2TT can reach 8.5 words per minute with extensive training.