In a surprising turn of events, the popular Vietnamese typing software EVKey has officially been discontinued, leaving many users in the Vietnamese Internet community in shock. Developed by programmer Lam Quang Minh, EVKey was a well-known tool that provided a user-friendly interface for typing Vietnamese across various platforms, including Windows and macOS. However, the lack of ongoing development and updates has led to its demise, marking the end of an era for this beloved software.
Lam Quang Minh announced the discontinuation of EVKey in a post on Facebook, stating that the software had not seen any updates or bug fixes for quite some time. "I have not developed the software to fix bugs or enhance it for a long time," he wrote, expressing gratitude to the user community. He recommended that those experiencing issues transition to alternative Vietnamese typing software for better support.
EVKey was based on the open-source code of Unikey and had gained popularity for its stability and ease of use. The last version released for Windows was 5.0.1 on March 13, 2022, while the macOS version 3.3.8 was launched in mid-2021. Despite its advantages, users are now left without updates, raising concerns about security and compatibility with future operating system versions.
The news of EVKey's discontinuation has sparked discussions among users about the best Vietnamese typing software currently available. Many are left wondering what alternatives exist and which software can effectively replace EVKey's functionalities. In light of this, several options have emerged as popular choices.
UniKey, the most widely used Vietnamese typing software, has been a staple for users since its inception in 2000 by engineer Pham Kim Long. Known for its simplicity and stability, UniKey supports various encoding systems, including Unicode and VNI, and has recently released updates to improve compatibility with Windows 11. With its strong performance and user-friendly interface, UniKey has maintained its position as the go-to software for many Vietnamese typists.
Another contender is GoTiengViet, developed by Tran Ky Nam. This software stands out for its advanced features, such as automatic spell-checking and contextual typing shortcuts. Unlike UniKey, which focuses on simplicity, GoTiengViet offers extensive customization options, making it a favorite among professionals who require more flexibility in their typing experience.
Before UniKey became the dominant force, VietKey was the go-to typing software during the 1990s and early 2000s. Developed by Dang Minh Tuan, VietKey was recognized for its support of various Vietnamese encoding systems. However, its paid nature and the emergence of free alternatives like UniKey led to its decline in popularity.
WinVNKey is another option for users who require a multi-language typing tool. It supports over 30 languages, including Vietnamese, and allows for customizable keyboard settings. While it caters to a broader audience, its complex interface may not appeal to those seeking a straightforward typing experience.
For users who prefer lightweight options, VietFast is a lesser-known software that offers efficient performance without consuming excessive system resources. It supports multiple typing styles and is compatible with various Windows versions, making it a suitable choice for users with lower-spec machines.
Lastly, Google Input Tools provides a browser-based solution for typing Vietnamese without the need for software installation. This tool is especially useful for users on public computers or those who do not wish to install additional software. Although it lacks some advanced features, it remains a convenient option for quick typing tasks.
As the Vietnamese typing software landscape evolves, the discontinuation of EVKey raises important questions about user needs and preferences. While UniKey continues to dominate the market, the exit of EVKey creates an opportunity for other software to gain traction among users seeking reliable alternatives.
In conclusion, the farewell of EVKey marks a significant moment in the history of Vietnamese typing software. Users now face the challenge of finding a suitable replacement that meets their typing needs. With options like UniKey, GoTiengViet, and others available, the community is encouraged to explore these alternatives to ensure a seamless typing experience moving forward.
