As touch screen technologies become increasingly popular, Microsoft Surface has emerged as a specialized computing platform and hardware device designed to make such technology more intuitive. First conceived in 2001, the innovative Microsoft Surface technology took years to perfect. Ultimately, though, a product was designed to help users control electronic information by using natural motions and hand gestures.
Microsoft Surface was first premiered at the D5 Conference in May, 2007 with the intent of appealing to hospitality, entertainment, and military services that use tactile computer machines. In fact, some of the first clients were Disneyland and MSNBC. Later, in April 2008, Microsoft Surface became more widely available and was released to costumers at AT&T stores. There, users can explore cell phone options through the touch interface. Buyers can even place various phone models on the tabletop and have the Microsoft Surface compare each one’s options.
Where will Microsoft Surface be used?
Another popular usage for the Microsoft Surface unit is in restaurants where patrons can use the device to order meals. The console can even offer wine suggestions based upon the food placed upon its screen. It is also used in hotels to help visitors plan their vacations and find nearby activities. In the near future, Starwood Hotels hopes to expand upon these features to allow patrons to pay for goods and services right from the Microsoft Surface unit. There are also games and dating applications that work on Microsoft Surface consoles in hotels and resorts.
Microsoft Surface has a 360 degree user interface on a 30-inch touch surface. To create images on the surface, the console beneath includes a XGA DLP projector. Meanwhile, the same console also has four cameras to monitor and respond to human actions on the surface.
In addition to responding to human touch, Microsoft Surface can also recognize and react to certain objects. For example, users can use paintbrushes to create images on the Microsoft Surface. Additionally, the console can react to multiple users using the machine at the same time. In fact, Microsoft Surface can respond to up to 52 touches at one time.
Microsoft Surface will be aimed at the commercial market
Currently, Microsoft is working with roughly 120 partners in 11 countries to develop Microsoft Surface usability for a variety of purposes. A commercial Microsoft Surface unit costs roughly $12,500 with additional costs associated with setup, software, etc. This price tag is currently too high for widespread consumer use, but the cost is expected to drop considerably by 2010.
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