Virtual keyboard

Meta Horizon OS provides a virtual keyboard, a system input method that lets users type in immersive environments. The software-based keyboard appears in the user’s field of view and they can interact with it using input methods like controllers and hands.

It is recommended when users need to input text: for example, when filling out forms, sending messages, or searching for information.

Download the Meta Horizon OS UI Set in Figma or Unity to start building with customizable, production-ready components.

The system keyboard supports a rich set of features that empower users to accomplish text input for various scenarios in immersive experiences.

Readout is a text preview provided to the user as they type on the virtual keyboard. It is the displayed text on top of the keyboard that shows what the user has typed, allowing them to see their input in real-time.

Without the readout feature, users would need to constantly shift their focus between the target text field and the keyboard, which is typically positioned at a closer distance. This would create a poor user experience, requiring extra visual attention and cognitive effort.

The readout provides a clear and visible indication of what the user has typed, making it easier for them to correct errors and ensure accurate input.

Because of privacy concerns, the password input field does not support readout functionality. This ensures that sensitive information remains confidential and protected.

Auto suggestion provides users with predictive text suggestions as they type. Suggestions are based on the input context, like previously typed words or phrases, to help them complete input quickly and accurately. The user can select a suggested option to complete the input, instead of typing the whole word or phrase.

The dictation feature transcribes a user’s spoken words into text. This feature lets you input text without typing, which helps people with mobility or dexterity impairments. Voice dictation is often faster than typing, especially for short messages or commands.

The virtual keyboard supports Unicode standard emojis.

With the Meta Horizon OS system keyboard, apps can support input for 20 languages.

Virtual keyboard supports cut, copy, and paste. The user can hold down on the cursor within the readout and drag it to their desired location. The cursor should scale up and get longer on long press to improve visibility of the cursor. After dragging to the new location and on release the cursor will be placed in the new location.

Use text fields to input text into the system. Text fields show a preview of the text before submission and can be single or multi-line, depending on the information needed. When you select a text field, the keyboard appears in front of the user. Partially opaque “hint” text may be present to prompt the user for specific information, such as email or password. Text fields may be paired with the assistance of chip-selections to help speed up productivity of the user’s intention, or a microphone button to prompt users to enter text via dictation.