Smart typewriter saves files to the cloud

The Hemingwrite is described by its Michigan designers as a ‘minimalist digital typewriter for distraction-free writing’. 

It has an e-ink display and saves documents to cloud storage, such as Dropbox. It was created by Michigan-based Adam Leeb and Patrick Paul and launched on Kickstarter.

‘It combines the simplicity of a typewriter with modern technology like an electronic paper screen and cloud backups to create the best possible writing experience.’ The inventors said that because the Hemingwrite doesn’t allow access to the web, it helps people work more efficiently.

The device includes a mechanical keyboard, an e-ink display that can be read in daylight, and access to cloud storage such as Dropbox and Google Drive.

Its makers also claim the battery on the Wi-Fi enabled, portable word processor will last for more than four weeks.

The first batch of pre-orders, initially available from Kickstarter for $349 (£299), sold out, and these orders will be shipped in September. The campaign ran until the 23rd January and raised $342,471 (£224,400) of its $250,000 (£164,540) goal.

Its makers have not announced exactly when the typewriter will go back on sale, but it is expected to retail for $499 (£328) at some point ‘later this year.’ ‘We’re proud of the prototype units we’ve developed and are excited to move into production,’ said Mr Leeb.

‘We have lined up a leading manufacturing group to partner with on the 2015 Hemingwrite model and are ready to move swiftly after completing our Kickstarter presale.

‘Our first priority for the software feature set is to deliver a great user experience for writers,’ added Mr Paul.