Input Method Framework

The input method framework enables the collaboration between text editing components and input methods in entering text. Input methods are software components that let the user enter text in ways other than simple typing on a keyboard. They are commonly used to enter Japanese, Chinese, or Korean - languages using thousands of different characters - on keyboards with far fewer keys. However, the framework also supports input methods for other languages and the use of entirely different input mechanisms, such as handwriting or speech recognition.

The input method framework provides two layers of public interfaces:

• The input method client API provides interfaces and classes that enable text editing components to communicate with input methods and implement a well-integrated text input user interface.
• The input method engine SPI provides interfaces that enable the development of input methods in the Java programming language that can be used with any Java runtime environment.

Overview and Specification

• Overview
• Specification

API and SPI Reference

• Input method client API reference
• Input method engine SPI reference

Tutorials

• Input method client API tutorial
• Input method engine SPI tutorial