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I was able to spend some time with FasTap at this year's 3GSM, and try out the latest version of their unique text-keypad technology. They were showing off a special prototype phone created jointly with Panasonic. (It's just a demonstrator - not an actual Panasonic model for release.)

The very first versions of the FasTap technology only had actual keys for the letters, with combinations of keys used to enter numbers. The new version on display at 3GSM adds real keys for the numbers.

In my short time trying it, I was surprised by how easy it was to type. With so many keys in such a small area, it looks like it would be easy to mis-type, but the unique physical design makes it surprisingly easy to feel out the correct keys.

In addition to speeding up text entry, FasTap also enhances other parts of the phone experience. For example, in idle mode, each key can link directly to a specific phone function. For example, you can simply press "G" to go straight to games, and "M" for messaging. The keypad also makes it much easier to search for names in the phonebook.

Text keypad solutions seem to be all the rage these days. It seems like every company has a different solution for cramming a keyboard into a tiny device. FasTap's solution is unique in that it integrates easily with traditional phone form factors.

Telus Mobility in Canada has already announced plans to offer a FasTap phone. The phone and its manufacturer are expected to be announced soon. FasTap is in serious talks with other carriers and manufacturers, and plans to announce additional licensees in the next few months.

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