KeyMod Series ▾

FAQs for Openterface KeyMod Series

Welcome to the FAQ for Openterface KeyMod (Mini and Plus).
If you don't find what you need, email us at [email protected] or join our community on Discord or Reddit.

⚠️ Note: KeyMod is currently in pre-launch development. Features, specifications, and design are subject to change as we finalize the product.

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General

What is KeyMod?

KeyMod is a pocket Wireless USB Multi-tool bridge: a compact dongle that plugs into the target device and turns your phone into a wireless keyboard, trackpad, and gamepad console via the KeyCmd app. The target sees standard USB keyboard and mouse HID—BIOS-capable, zero driver install.

What platforms does the KeyCmd app support?

The KeyCmd controller app focuses on Android and iPadOS. We are also expanding desktop control with Windows and macOS software in our broader Openterface ecosystem.

Does the target device need any software?

No. KeyMod emulates a standard USB keyboard and mouse. The target device recognizes it as plug-and-play HID hardware—no drivers or software installation required.

Is KeyMod open source?

Yes. KeyMod is open hardware and open software. We will publish schematics, PCB files, firmware, software, and BOM as the project evolves.

Hardware — Mini vs Plus

What is the difference between KeyMod Mini and KeyMod Plus?

Both SKUs run the same KeyCmd app. The difference is which USB port on the target they plug into and how your phone links to the dongle:

SKU Target plug Phone link
KeyMod Mini USB-C male → target BLE wireless only — ultra-compact, Type-C-first EDC
KeyMod Plus USB-A male → target BLE or USB wired to the dongle — steadier phone link and more bandwidth (ideal for KM Pro and Terminal Preview)

BLE range (both): best within ~5 m, up to ~10 m in open space.

Is KeyMod a Bluetooth keyboard for my PC?

No. KeyMod presents USB HID to the target. Bluetooth (or Plus USB) is phone ↔ KeyMod only—not “phone pairs to PC as a Bluetooth keyboard.” Your PC never pairs with your phone over Bluetooth for KeyMod control.

Connectivity

USB vs Bluetooth—which should I use?

  • Phone ↔ KeyMod over BLE: Cable-free from your pocket. Works on both Mini and Plus.
  • Phone ↔ KeyMod over USB (Plus only): More reliable and higher bandwidth than BLE alone—recommended for heavy KM Pro or Terminal Preview sessions.
  • KeyMod → target: Always USB plug-in (Mini on USB-C, Plus on USB-A). The target never uses Bluetooth for KeyMod HID.

Features

Can I create custom profiles and macros?

Yes. KeyCmd supports custom gamepad presets, Shortcut Hub profiles, strip layouts (KM Pro), macros, and Saved texts. See the KeyCmd app FAQ for mode details.

Does KeyMod capture video?

No. KeyMod is HID-only. Use Mini-KVM or KVM-GO when you need the target screen on your laptop.

Does Gamepad mode make the PC see an Xbox or PlayStation controller?

Not with current KeyMod hardware. KeyCmd maps sticks and buttons to keyboard and mouse actions—the target sees standard keyboard + mouse HID, not native gamepad HID.

Pre-Launch

When will KeyMod launch?

KeyMod is in pre-launch development. Back or subscribe on Crowd Supply and the product page for launch notifications and updates.

How is KeyMod related to Mini-KVM and KVM-GO?

KeyMod shares Openterface’s proven HID core with Mini-KVM and KVM-GO—the same hardware-based keyboard and mouse emulation approach. KeyMod is designed for local phone-as-console control over USB HID, not KVM-over-USB video capture. KeyCmd also works with Mini-KVM and KVM-GO hardware for keyboard, trackpad, and gamepad modes.

See also