Students from the University of Bolton will be taking part in testing a communications innovation on Friday - a new-style computer keyboard which turns text-speak into full English.
The Cre8txt keyboard's styling has been designed at the university's Design Studio. Its electronics components have been devised by its parent company, Bolton-based Cre8txt limited.
The device is similar to a mobile phone keypad and uses patented predictive text technology.
Students will gather in the Design Studio to test out the keyboard in time trials.
Design Studio manager, Andy Smith said: "Students are big texters, they have some of the fastest thumbs in town so these time trials should be a thorough road test for the Cre8txt keyboard.
"It just plugs into a USB slot on your computer - it's that simple, and away you go."
With patent-pending, Cre8txt keyboard is compatible with a PC, Apple Mac and Xbox 360.
The university's role has included designing the keypad and device casing, as well as working with manufacturers to ensure design tolerances were adhered to and the product could be manufactured cost-effectively.
Available to buy online, cre8txt has already won attention. It has been nominated for a Big Chip Award, an annual competition and awards ceremony celebrating North West digital excellence.
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