The first swype-like input system I used was the IBM Shark.

https://gigaom.com/2004/11/03/text_entry_epip/

That had hexagonal keys and used the ATOMIK layout. It also focussed much more on shape, with the intention being that once you were expert, you could write words without looking at the keyboard, as the layout was just for guidance. You didn't actually have to start on the letter as long as the shape was right.