Use the Force - XR Text Input via Sensitive Force Modulation

Text entry in XR is still dominated by QWERTY-style techniques that require continuous spatial aiming and visual attention - an inconvenient fit for mobile or socially constrained use. We propose a pressure-based method that does not require spatial aiming by mapping characters onto a one-dimensional force continuum. Our system focuses on scenarios where reduced movement and reduced visual dependence are of relevance. The system is designed with incidental recalibration and a consistent starting position (analogous to physical keyboard homing bars), which - as motor learning research demonstrates - enables transition from visual-guided toward non-visual recall-based operation. We implement the technique on a commodity XR controller and describe interaction and mapping choices that privilege comfort and touch typing potential over (QWERTY-)familiarity and precise aiming. In an expert study (N=21), participants showed rapid early learning with stable accuracy. While measured absolute speeds (3.2 WPM) are below raycasting baselines, the significant increase in typing speed of 27.5% throughout a short four-minute training session suggests that higher speeds are possible with practice. We conclude with design levers that chart a path toward higher efficiency without sacrificing the non-spatial and recalibration benefits.