Microsoft has stepped up with a challenge to the Apple iPhone’s lauded multi-touch interface. The PC maker released their innovative SideSight system last week at the User Interface in Software and Technology Symposium. The technology allows users to control actions on a cell phone screen by moving their fingers along side the device. Infrared sensors pick up motions up to 10 centimeters away and translate them into movement on the screen.
[via New Scientist]
interesting, but how would it work when you’re holding your phone, as many of us do, with thumb and fingers on either side? seems a bit less “mobile” if the device needs to be on a tabletop to work…
October 27th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Stepped up with a challenge fail.
Looks really limited for mobile use but I’m sure they’ll find a use for the technology somewhere…
October 27th, 2008 at 5:06 pm
While I still don’t know about the practicality of this kind of software, I do feel the need to point out a slight discrepancy which I think a lot of people make. Microsoft doesn’t make computers, at all. They produce software. Hardware they make peripherals, DAPs and the XBOX, but no computers. Unlike a certain fruit company which produces both for only itself.
October 28th, 2008 at 8:03 am