Apple Seriously Considered Releasing iPhone With Hardware Keyboard

If you are a long time iOS user who is used to the on-screen virtual keyboard, then you probably find the need of a physical keyboard unnecessary.

But that hasn't stopped rumors from claiming that Apple will launch an iPhone with a physical keyboard.

Interestingly, Tony Fadell, former Senior Vice President of the iPod Division at Apple revealed in an interview with The Verge that Apple had seriously considered releasing the iPhone with a hardware keyboard.

A hardware keyboard was seriously considered within Apple before the iconic touchscreen-only design was given the green light. He said there were three different versions: an "iPod + Phone," a different iteration that was called the "iPhone," and finally, the device that was ultimately introduced back in January of 2007. As for Fadell's own take on a hardware keyboard? He told the audience tonight that he himself knew the potential of virtual keyboards, and personally wanted to wait to implement one before going with the hardware option. Fadell worked on the iPhone up until the 3GS - and was involved with a whopping 18 generations of the iPod line - before stepping away to start Nest. 

While it is taken for granted now, iPhone's virtual keyboard was one of the revolutionary features of the iPhone.

Do you miss a physical keyboard while using the iPhone? Please share your views in the comments.