Javelin Year in Review

Tharelia writes:

Javelin 2025 Year in Review

Here's a recap of some highlights from 2025:

Firmware

New Features

* Added Passport protocol

* Added support for encoders and pointers (e.g. Cirque trackpad)

* Added configurable delay between output

* Added support for alternate steno systems (e.g. German Regenpfeifer); switched default system to extended-english

* Added MIDI output

* Added infrared capability

Enhancements

* PloverHID is now the default alternative steno protocol for all boards that used to switch between Gemini PR and Embedded steno.

* Paper Tape and Steno Layout web tools work when using steno protocols

* Fully flexible host layout configuration

* Added a range of cryptographic signing methods for security key implementation, including post-quantum algorithms: Dilithium2/3/5

Web Tools

Connectivity:

* Added Linux support for WebHID over Bluetooth

* Added WebSerial and WebBluetooth connectivity methods

New Tools:

* Asset Tool

* Audio Tool

* Bluetooth Tool

* Infrared Tool

* Security Key Tool

* Serial Bridge Tool

Tool Enhancements

* Lookup Tool now shows prefixes and related outlines

* Added Hesitation times to Paper Tape export

* Added Occurrence Rating and Dictionary options to Suggestions tool

* Added timestamps and ability to execute scripts within Console tool 

* Added ability to add keyboard outlines and interactive controls to Key Layout tool

Visual Editor

* Added cut/copy/paste support

* Added undo/redo

* Added prefab support

* New Triggers:

  * Double Press

  * Rapid Fire

* New Actions:

  * Audio Sequence

  * Condition

  * Delayed Action

  * Set Variable

Firmware Builder

* RTF dictionary support

* Option to ignore bad dictionary entries

There have also been a number of significant power and performance optimizations and bug fixes through the year.

Happy New Year!

BYOK: Not Yet Ready for Steno :(

Well, I finally got my long-awaited BYOK, but unfortunately it doesn't work with any of the four steno machines I tried on it (all running different versions of Javelin, including one in compatibility mode). Apparently it's a problem with the implementation of the HID protocol on the BYOK firmware, and according to Tharelia that's likely to be causing problems with all NKRO keyboards, not just steno machines, so with luck the other customers struggling with similar issues will pressure the company to prioritize a fix. I hope they do, because it's a lovely little machine, and I can see myself using it for novel writing, editing, maybe even live captioning! Fingers crossed they figure it out soon.

Steno Stednesdays

Jonas says:

I've been learning lapwing for a few months, currently have my wpm between 30 and 60 depending on my familiarity with the text. As I've also been getting back into twitch streaming I've started up "Steno Stednesdays" on Wednesdays to share my progress and chat while I practice!
My next one will be today at 1pm pacific, and I plan to post here whenever I go live in case anyone wants to tune in!
ChannelJonas

OT Dude on Steno

This is an old post by an Occupational Therapist on his early attempts to learn steno. I thought it was really interesting. I've often wondered whether there could be any potential crossover between occupational therapy and steno. Sadly I wasn't able to find any updates on his blog about how the process has been going over the past few years. I just learned that a friend of mine has been practicing steno every week for a year, but hasn't built much speed. What's the secret? What can open steno do to make the process easier and more efficient? I wish I knew! Its all a bit mysterious to me, but I hope that someday we figure out how to crack it.

Mejiro31 - Forthcoming New Stenoboard

Jeebis from the Open Steno Discord has designed a new board called the Mejiro31 and is planning to sell it on Yushakobo when it's ready! It looks very sleek and cool, doesn't it?

Stenokeyboards Sale

Some good deals going at Stenokeyboards right now!

Discord Server Renamed

The Plover Discord Server has been renamed Open Steno to better reflect the community it represents. Still the same lovely friendly nerdy place, though! Come check it out if you haven't already.