Q9 input method

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The Q9 input method (Chinese: 九方輸入法), invented by Qcode Information Technology Ltd. of Hong Kong, is an input method that uses only the number keys on a numeric keypad to input Chinese characters into a digital device. Invented in 1999 by Vincent Lau Man-kin, it is considered an easy method to use even though it is a "structural" input method. (Most "structural" methods are considered difficult.) It is used on some mobile phones in Hong Kong. It provides an alternative to Cangjie input method as well, as this utilizes the numeric keypad on personal computers. Lau's previous experience was as a television screenwriter for three decades. A friend asked Lau in 1999 if he could create an input method capable of using the numeric keypad on the mobile phone to output Chinese characters. He spent three days creating the Q9 input method. Making the input method his company's primary product, he renamed the company from Quick Code Information Technology (Chinese: 快碼資訊科技) to Q9 Information Technology (Chinese: 九方資訊科技). However, besides its use for cell phones, the use of this input method on personal computers is limited, due to its proprietary nature and that personal computers do not have Q9 input method pre-installed. Since the speed of the input method relies upon using numeric keypad on PCs, this method is impractical for use on most laptops. Q9 input method is available as an FEP on Symbian S60 3rd Edition mobile devices.