The problem with a multi-user tabletop computer is that it’s difficult for the software to keep track of who’s using it. Unless you strap a Kinect sensor to the underside that lets it make note of their footwear choices.
Two things. One, we’re going to need a lot of hand sanitiser if Microsoft is right about the all-touch-everything future. Two, I’m surprised how much I like Microsoft’s vision — it’s futuristic, natural and metro-y.
I keep forgetting how wonderful Microsoft’s Surface technology is. Here, the New York Times R&D Lab have taken it, bent it to their will, and created news-centric tabletop interface that you’ll want to play with every morning. Just maybe not eat on.
Believe it or not, that’s actually several thousand cheaper than the first iteration of the Surface. This second version is four inches thick and uses Gorilla Glass so it can withstand all manner of finger smears and prods. [ZDNet]
I love karaoke, but it amuses me how many joints don’t even have a digital songlist, instead favouring a cheapskate telephone book of songs. Hong Kong’s completely pimped the karaoke bar, with Panasonic’s 103-inch 3DTV, Kinect and Microsoft Surface.
Microsoft, seeing an opportunity in the very young and undefined “tactile touchscreen” space, has filed a patent for pixel-sized plastic cells that can give a sense of touch and feel to tomorrow’s touchscreen devices.
Microsoft Surface has largely been an exciting tech demo, with highly original interface concepts limited by the bulky and expensive nature of the device itself. But word from one of the foremost software developers for the Microsoft Surface indicates the next generation is ‘imminent’ and will make the platform far more versatile
Mark Micire of UMass Lowell is a forward thinking dude. Right now, most of us don’t even have one robot, let alone a swarm. But someday, we’ll be tripping over ‘em! Micire’s multitouch interface will help keep them in line.
