We are releasing a beta firmware update to our Apex Pro keyboards that is our take on SOCD (Simultaneous Opposing Cardinal Directions). Find all the instructions below!
We are continuously working on bringing new features to our line of Apex Pro keyboards. With that in mind, we want to bring in our community to beta test Rapid Tap, an upcoming technology that will allow you to take advantage of SOCD — Simultaneous Opposing Cardinal Directions. It has made waves in the fighting game community as well as first-person shooters.
Our vision for the final version of Rapid Tap is to have up to 5 customizable pairings, so you can truly perfect your gameplay, such as your counter-strafing, peeking, crouch-jumping or slide-canceling. Whether it's an FPS or a fighting game, your gameplay gets more responsive than ever, and maneuvers that seemed impossible before start to feel easy.
As we continue to implement and improve Rapid Tap until full release, join us in making it the best it can be, bringing even more functionality to Apex Pro.
Note that this is a feature we are beta testing. There will be opportunities to provide feedback to us. Some features may be buggy or not working as intended.
Compatible keyboards
All Apex Pro keyboards are compatible to test out this new feature. including both 2019 and 2023 models of various sizes (Fullsize, TKL, Mini). Wireless or wired does not matter.
How to install Rapid Tap
This feature is coming as a standalone firmware beta update that is available through SteelSeries GG software. Make sure your GG is updated to version 68.0.0. (Go to Settings, scroll down, and see the "About" section to check your version and update).
Here is how to install it:
1. Make sure your SteelSeries GG software is at version 68.0.0. and your keyboard is plugged in.
2. Navigate to the Engine section of GG and look for your keyboard. A button that says "Beta Firmware Available" should show on the keyboard banner.
3. This takes you to a Beta opt-in settings screen. Make sure to read the information, and click the blue toggle when ready.
4. Once toggled on, briefly unplug your keyboard completely, then plug it back in. Back on the Engine screen, you will see a firmware update. Click on the banner. Do not unplug during the firmware update.
5. Wait for the process to fully finish and for your keyboard to restart, automatically. Now, Rapid Tap works!
If you encounter issues, try restarting your computer and restarting GG and then doing it again.
Currently, there are no settings for Rapid Tap.
How to uninstall Rapid Tap
Need to go back? There is no way to turn off Rapid Tap at the moment without uninstalling it.
In order to uninstall Rapid Tap, open up the SteelSeries GG software and essentially perform the same steps:
- Go to Settings, click on the Beta tab, and move the slider to inactive.
- Then, fully unplug and plug your keyboard back in.
- Once it shows up in Engine, click the firmware update again, and that will restore you to the current public build which doesn't have Rapid Tap.
How to use Rapid Tap in your games
One of the major benefits here is for strafing in FPS games, with the A and D keys. See how strafing in Counter-Strike 2 and/or Valorant feel, especially in a Training environment where you can test out the feel.
Other than that, SOCD has applications for other genres such as fighting games or rhythm games. The ability to keep a button held down, but also have the keyboard register another, is huge in fighting games.
While at the moment you will not be able to set keys other than A and D, try out how it feels especially in strafing in FPS games.
How to provide feedback to SteelSeries
Something doesn't work as intended? Have a fantastic idea that we absolutley should include? Let us know!
We are gathering feedback through our SteelSeries Discord and Reddit.
Stay tuned, and get excited for the future of gaming keyboards at SteelSeries.
