Former Apple Design Exec debuts NUIO – A new take in ergonomic accessories

Keyboards have looked at and done the same thing for over 100 years, dating back to the typewriter days. So, when you think of keyboards, innovation isn’t usually the first word that comes to mind. But NUIO, founded by former Apple Product Design Executive Tom Wilson—one of the original creators of the MacBook Air— and his brother Greg Wilson are attempting to change that. The NUIO Flow Keyboard is reimagining what the traditional keyboard should be able to do.

The Flow Keyboard design

The Flow Keyboard is a far cry from the traditional flat, rigid keyboard you’re used to. It features a radial key layout that arranges keys in a way that feels more natural to your hand placement, along with a split, wireless design that lets you place each half wherever it feels best. This setup aims to reduce strain and improve posture, and it shows. The 3-D wave shape isn’t just a design choice, it’s crafted to support the natural curve of your wrists, letting your fingers reach each key without stretching or awkward positioning.

Key Features of the NUIO Flow Keyboard:

• Radial key layout: Keys are placed closer to where your fingers naturally rest.
• 3-D wave and split design: Customize your setup with two halves that can be adjusted independently.
• Backlit keys and legends: Perfect for late-night typing or low-light workspaces.

These elements combine to create a keyboard that encourages a relaxed, productive typing experience. And, as I discovered, it actually works. I found myself using this keyboard (with the magnetic mat) in all types of environments, from my couch to my desk to my bed. Something about the design just makes it feel easy and simple.

My hands-on experience

I’ve been using the Flow Keyboard for about two weeks, and I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I adapted to it. At first, the radial key layout took some time, but within a few days, my fingers were comfortably navigating the board. Instead of sort of conforming my body over a regular keyboard and hunching over, I tended to sit back and place my hands where they naturally went on my desk and just placed the keyboard half right under my hands. It became my preferred keyboard over the traditional setup I’d been using.

The split, wave-shaped design made a noticeable difference, reducing strain and keeping my posture more natural, especially during longer sessions. One thing I really appreciated was the flexibility to position each half independently. It let me create a setup that felt uniquely mine—something that isn’t possible with a standard keyboard. Typing on the Flow Keyboard felt less like a chore and more like an engaging experience, helping me stay in my work zone longer and with less fatigue.

The NUIO ecosystem

NUIO’s ergonomic focus doesn’t stop at the keyboard. They’ve created an entire suite of workspace tools to pair with the Flow Keyboard, making for a seamless, flexible setup that supports the way you work:

• Flow Trackpad: Featuring a smooth, edge-to-edge glass surface, this trackpad offers precise, mechanical clicks and multi-touch gestures, great for efficient browsing and document work.
• Magnetic Desk Pads: Available in multiple sizes, these desk pads hold NUIO components firmly in place yet are easy to adjust as needed.
• Adjustable Stands: These let you tilt and tent the keyboard to an angle that feels best for your wrists.
• Wrist Pads: Soft, comfortable wrist pads pair perfectly with the Flow Keyboard, providing gentle support for marathon work sessions.

Each accessory is crafted with the same ergonomic attention to detail as the keyboard, offering a personalized and comfortable workspace that you can adapt to your needs, whether you’re at home or on the go. The wrist pads were surprisingly my favorite accessory. They are the most comfortable pads I have ever rested my wrists on. You have to feel it for yourself!

Pricing and availability

The NUIO Flow Keyboard is available for pre-order on HelloNUIO.com, with prices starting at $399, and shipments are set to begin on December 1st. The keyboard has seven distinct color options, letting you choose a style that suits your workspace.

NUIO also provides bundles that include additional accessories like the Flow Trackpad, Magnetic Desk Pads, Adjustable Stands, and Wrist Pads for those interested in a complete ergonomic setup. These bundles offer a cohesive experience, enabling you to create a fully personalized, adaptable workspace. Visit their website for full pricing, bundle details, and options to craft your own ideal NUIO setup.

Final Thoughts

The NUIO Flow Keyboard and the entire NUIO ecosystem offer a refreshing take on workspace essentials. At $399, the Flow Keyboard sits in the premium range, but for professionals who spend hours a day typing, the comfort and productivity boost might well be worth it. NUIO has managed to turn the keyboard from an everyday tool into a thoughtfully designed experience that truly helps you “find your flow.” The unique layout, flexible positioning, and ergonomic focus create a more engaging and comfortable experience that makes typing feel like less of a task and more of an extension of your ideas.

Let me know what you think? Is this a product you want to try? have you tried a split keyboard before? Is the price point too high? Let’s discuss all this below!