SIGGRAPH 2007: Multi-touch table reaches market maturity

Archive notice: This article was originally published on August 6, 2007. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.

Surface represents a new interface between user and computer. For this, Microsoft has integrated a 30-inch multi-touch display into a tabletop. Mouse and keyboard were omitted as input devices. Instead, users can operate applications with their fingers directly on the tabletop or display surface. In contrast to conventional touchscreen technology, Surface recognizes severa touches of the screen made simultaneously.

It is conceivable that several people can interact with the system at the same time, for example when viewing photo material. With the appropriate software, images can be moved, rotated, enlarged and edited on the screen by hand.

Surface runs on the basis of the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system and requires additional software add-ons. As early as the end of the year, the devices costing between 5000 and 10000 US dollars are intended to be used in hotels, casinos, restaurants and ticket sales outlets. Cheaper devices for the consumer sector are not expected for another three to five years.

Further links:

• Microsoft Surface