Awhile back Microsoft announced a new multi-touch technology called Surface. Surface is a table-top computer without mouse or keyboard. The concept is that the computer becomes integrated into one’s reality.
Microsoft states that Surface will break barriers between people and technology. Users have direct interaction and can literally “grab” digital information with their hands. Surface provides a multi-user experience and also has object recognition capabilities – making transfer of digital content very easy.
It uses an acrylic tabletop for the screen, an LED light source is aimed at the screen and movement is read by infrared cameras and a rear-projection DLP light engine. The underlying operating system is a modified version of Microsoft Vista.
Surface won’t hit the commercial market until spring of 2008 although they will begin putting the machines in hotels bars and restaurants.
Have a look at some of the videos on the Surface website.
Links:
Microsoft Surface
Popular Mechanics article – (with more information on technology specifics)
