Custom AAC Keyguards: How personalisation empowers communication
Custom keyguards for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) apps make it easier for users to accurately select buttons on their iPad screens. By providing raised, tactile boundaries around each button (or 'cell'), custom keyguards help users — especially those with fine motor challenges — to communicate with greater confidence, independence and precision.
At KimTech, we believe that personalisation is not just a nice-to-have feature; it's critical for supporting communication access tailored to each user's unique needs. Through thoughtful customisations, AAC users can experience a smoother, more intuitive interaction with their communication apps.
Key Summary
- Personalised AAC keyguards create tactile and visual boundaries to improve selection accuracy.
- Custom features include merged cells, hidden menu options, adjustable rail thickness and colour choices.
- Keyguards can be attached via slide-in tabs or reusable suction tape, depending on the user’s preference.
- Personalised solutions enhance communication independence and confidence for AAC users.
What are Custom Keyguards for AAC?
AAC keyguards are lightweight frames designed to fit over an iPad screen, helping users accurately select cells within their AAC app. Each keyguard aligns perfectly with the app’s grid layout, providing:
- 3D visual borders that guide eye-hand coordination.
- Physical barriers that prevent accidental touches.
This is particularly beneficial for individuals with limited fine motor control, visual challenges, or those who simply need more guidance when navigating their AAC app.
Why Personalisation Matters
No two AAC users are the same. Customising a keyguard ensures it matches the user's specific communication needs and physical abilities. Personalisation can:
- Make communication quicker and less frustrating.
- Reduce fatigue from repeated errors.
- Boost the user’s independence and self-confidence.
Small changes — like adjusting the rail width or hiding unnecessary menu options — can have a huge impact on a user’s ability to communicate effectively.
Collaboration with Occupational Therapists and Speech Pathologists
Designing the right keyguard is often a team effort. Occupational Therapists (OTs) are experts in fine motor skills and physical access, while Speech Pathologists (SPs) specialise in communication and language organisation of AAC apps for each user.
Together, these professionals can help identify the precise customisations — such as grid size, merged cells, rail thickness, or attachment style — that will enhance the user's accuracy and success in accessing their AAC app.
At KimTech, we liaise closely with OTs, SPs and families to ensure each keyguard is individually tailored to the user's physical and communication needs, as requested, to promote more effective and efficient communication.
Examples of Custom Features
KimTech offers a range of personalisation options based on user feedback and real-world needs. Some examples include:
Merging Cells for Scrolling
One client requested a Proloquo2Go keyguard where multiple cells in a vertical column were merged to allow for easier scrolling between vocabulary pages — a simple tweak that significantly enhanced their experience.
Hiding or Revealing Menu Options
AAC app layouts often change when entering settings or edit mode. A custom keyguard can hide specific buttons (such as the 'Edit' button) to prevent accidental changes. In the example below, the keyguard openings were adjusted to match four visible menu options instead of the usual five.
Attachment Methods: Slide-in Tabs vs Suction Tape
Slide-in Tabs
Slide-in tabs are a popular method where the tabs fit snugly under the iPad’s protective frame. They:
- Keep the keyguard securely in place.
- Eliminate the risk of the keyguard detaching during use.
- Are ideal for users who require a sturdy, long-term solution.
Suction Tape
Suction tape, made with tiny suction cups, is another option. It allows the keyguard to stick directly to the screen and can be:
- Easily lifted by gently peeling one corner.
- Reusable — although occasional cleaning under cold water may be needed to maintain stickiness.
- Preferred for users who need to frequently clean the screen or make regular app edits.
Both attachment options are reliable and the choice depends on the user's needs for stability versus flexibility.
Customising Keyguard Dimensions
Another form of personalisation KimTech offers is adjusting the width of the horizontal and vertical rails.
- Thin rails (as thin as 2mm wide) are great for users with better motor control.
- Wider rails (6mm or more) provide more surface area between cells, helping users who may have involuntary movements or who need additional tactile feedback.
Choosing the right rail thickness can make a big difference in preventing accidental selections and increasing overall ease of use.
Custom Keyguards for Different Grid Layouts
AAC apps allow users to customise their grid layouts based on their communication needs and motor abilities — and so should the keyguards that accompany them. KimTech custom keyguards are made to fit a wide variety of layouts, including:
- Larger cell grids such as 3x5 layouts (common in apps like Proloquo2Go for beginner or younger users).
- Smaller, more complex grids like 12x7 (LAMP Words for Life) or 11x6 (TD Snap Motor Plan 66).
Matching the keyguard exactly to the user's chosen layout ensures optimal accessibility, selection accuracy and ease of use. No matter the app or configuration, we design keyguards to meet each user's unique setup.
Colour Options for Personalised Keyguards
Colour contrast can enhance visual recognition and engagement. KimTech offers a variety of keyguard colours:
- Black: A subtle option that makes cell content stand out.
- Red, Blue, or Yellow: Provide strong contrast to suit individual visual needs.
- Bright Colours: For users who enjoy a vibrant and fun communication environment!
Choosing a colour that matches the user's preferences or vision needs can make their AAC device feel more personal and inviting.
Want to Learn More About the Keyguard Creation Process?
Curious about how custom keyguards are made?
You can learn more about our process — from design to 3D printing — by visiting our blog post:
🔗 How I Create 3D Printed Keyguards for iPad Apps
FAQs
What is a custom AAC keyguard?
A custom AAC keyguard is a tailored frame designed to match the layout of an AAC app, helping users select cells more accurately and easily.
Can a keyguard be removed easily?
Yes. If attached using suction tape, the keyguard can be easily removed and replaced. Slide-in tab keyguards are more securely attached and require removing the device case to detach.
Which attachment method is better for frequent cleaning?
Suction tape is ideal if you need to frequently clean the screen or edit app settings, as it allows for quick removal and reattachment.
Can I personalise the colour of my keyguard?
Absolutely! KimTech offers a range of colours, from subtle black to vibrant colours, to suit individual preferences and needs.
Conclusion
At KimTech, we understand that every AAC user is unique. That’s why we believe custom keyguards should be, too. Whether it’s merging cells, adjusting rail thickness, choosing attachment methods, or picking the perfect colour, personalisation plays a vital role in making communication easier, more accurate and more empowering for users of all abilities.
If you're interested in learning more about our custom keyguard options or need help designing the perfect solution for your needs, get in touch with the KimTech team today.