Microsoft unveils sensory 'surface computer'

Software giant, Microsoft has launched Surface their first surface computer touted to provide effortless interaction with digital content through natural hand gestures, touch and physical objects.

Surface computing breaks down traditional barriers between people and technology, changing the way people interact with all kinds of everyday information — from photos to maps to menus.

Features of the Microsoft Surface: Direct interaction: Users can actually “grab” digital information with their hands, interacting with content by touch and gesture, without the use of a mouse or keyboard. Multi-touch: Surface computing recognizes many points of contact simultaneously, not just from one finger like a typical touch-screen, but up to dozens of items at once. Multi-user: The horizontal form factor makes it easy for several people to gather around surface computers together, providing a collaborative, face-to-face computing experience. Object recognition: Users can place physical objects on the surface to trigger different types of digital responses, including the transfer of digital content.

The Microsoft Surface display will initially be used on a commercial bases, but the company hopes that this technology will someday make its way and become commonplace in homes as well.