Typo is a bluetooth keyboard case that attaches to your iPhone giving you access to physical keys to type on. The startup company is backed by popular media personality Ryan Seacrest.

The company created the accessory featuring a full backlit keyboard, battery indicator, smart typing, dedicated lock key  and more. The design and aesthetics of the device does resemble the physical keyboard found on old BlackBerry phones.

The Canadian smartphone manufacturer was quick to notice the similarities and sued Typo. BlackBerry won an injunction however, in response the keyboard maker launched second-gen model called Typo 2 which they believe does not infringe on BlackBerry’s patents.

According to a new report published by The Hollywood Reporter, BlackBerry has filed a second lawsuit against Typo alleging that Typo 2 continues to infringe on BlackBerry’s intellectual property.

The court announced an award of $860,000 to BlackBerry as Typo continued selling its original keyboard despite the injunction. BlackBerry has now demanded for for “enhanced and exemplary” damages for Typo’s continued infringement.

Since iPhones’ introduction in 2007 now every smartphone features touchscreen keyboards. Some device makers initially did try to differentiate their offering from the iPhone by offering a physical keyboard however, that strategy hasn’t worked too well as such phones have clearly not become a huge success.

Typo and Typo 2 caters to a niche segment that still prefers the old-school physical keyboard typing experience. Typo 2 design features flat keys that reduces its resemblance to BlackBerry’s keyboards however, it blocks the home button / Touch ID sensor on the iPhone 6.

Are you a fan of Typo 2 for iPhone? What do you think about BlackBerry suing Typo Innovations LLC? Let us know in the comments below.

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