Dual input multilayer keyboard

A method for operating a dual input keyboard, the method comprising:

• activating a multilayer keyboard comprising a first input mode wherein each of eight of nine keys in the first input mode are selectable through one of eight corresponding directional inputs;
• receiving a first input with a first directional component;
• mapping the first input to a first key in the first input mode;
• in response to the first input, activating a second input mode comprising at least five keys;
• receiving a second input with a second directional component, wherein the first input is received through a first input device and the second input is received through a second input device;
• mapping the second input to a second key;
• and
• outputting a character associated with the second key for entry into a text field.

One or more computer-storage media having computer-executable instructions which are not signal per se embodied thereon that when executed by a computing device perform a method for operating a dual input keyboard, the method comprising:

• outputting for display a first keyboard layer comprising at least nine keys arranged in a grid comprising three rows of three keys;
• receiving a first input with a first directional component;
• mapping the first input to a first key in the first keyboard layer;
• in response to the first input, outputting for display a second keyboard layer comprising at least two keys;
• receiving a second input with a second directional component wherein the first input is received through a first interface and the second input is received through a second input interface;
• mapping the second input to a second key;
• and
• outputting a character associated with the second key for entry into a text field.