Microsoft unveils any-display touch technology

 

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Posted on 23 May 2008 at 08:38

Microsoft Labs has revealed LaserTouch, a new technology which could be used to make any display touch sensitive.

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The technology employs an infrared camera and a laser mesh system to track how the user interacts with the display, whether that's a flat-screen monitor or a projected image. This information is then fed into software which interprets the gestures for the applications, allowing users to run through a PowerPoint display by tapping on the wall, for example.

At its heart, the system works like Surface, Microsoft's 30in touchscreen table that allows people to move objects on the screen with their fingertips.

However, unlike Surface which is aimed at large hotel chains and casinos and costs between $5,000 and $10,000 each, LaserTouch makes use of low-cost components, which should bring the cost of implementation down to just a few hundred dollars.

That's assuming the technology ever makes it to market. While Microsoft claims the software powering LaserTouch was recently used in Bill Gates' Touch Wall demonstration, the company maintains that there are still a number of technical challenges to be overcome, and there's no denying LaserTouch steps on the toes of Surface - which it is still looking to bring into the home.

Author: Stuart Turton