In a world where technology meets compassion, one innovative design stands out, offering hope to individuals facing the challenges of Parkinson’s disease. This heartwarming story celebrates a young designer whose dedication has led to the creation of a truly transformative tool, empowering others to regain their independence and self-expression through typing.

Meet Alessandra Galli, an imaginative product designer from Italy, who recently unveiled an incredible invention that is changing lives. Her creation, the “OnCue” smart keyboard, won the Global Winner title at the prestigious James Dyson Awards in 2025. What began as a university thesis project at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands has blossomed into a pioneering solution for those grappling with the challenges of Parkinson’s disease.

The OnCue keyboard’s heart lies in its ingenious design, crafted to assist users in managing motor symptoms such as tremors, slow movements, and sudden freezing. Alessandra’s journey started with focus groups where she learned about the typing struggles faced by individuals with Parkinson’s. Their stories resonated deeply within her, igniting a passion to create a device that would restore their confidence and independence.

Here’s what makes OnCue so special:

• Haptic Feedback: Subtle vibrations along the keys and optional wristbands guide users’ typing rhythm, compensating for diminished tactile sensitivity.
• AI Lighting System: An innovative AI feature predicts the next letter a user intends to type, illuminating the key with a gentle green light. This clever cue minimizes hesitance, making typing smoother and more intuitive.
• Ergonomic Design: Drawing inspiration from gaming keyboards, OnCue boasts a compact, split layout that reduces strain. The keycaps have raised edges, ensuring one’s fingers find their way effortlessly, avoiding unintentional presses.

Customization is at the forefront of OnCue, allowing users to adjust haptic feedback and the intensity of visual cues. This thoughtful feature accommodates the daily fluctuations that accompany Parkinson’s symptoms, ensuring a personalized experience each time.

With the $40,000 prize from the James Dyson Awards, Alessandra is eager to bring OnCue to the masses. She plans to enhance its electronic components and collaborate with occupational therapists and Parkinson’s organizations for thorough usability testing.

James Dyson, the founder of the award, praised Alessandra’s innovation: “OnCue offers an empowering solution, helping those with motor conditions maintain their autonomy and connection with the world.” His words highlight the essence of this project—a blend of technology and humanity, aimed at enhancing lives.

To follow Alessandra’s journey in perfecting this remarkable keyboard, visit the project website, OnCueDesign.net.

Let’s spread the word about OnCue and share this wonderful news with anyone who could benefit from it—together, we can inspire hope!