Originally submitted in March of last year but only published last week, the patent for a “Force Imaging Input and Device System” describes today’s touchscreens and touchpads as limited by their relatively simple input, which tracks just the location of the finger or stylus on the surface. A method of detecting the strength of the user’s input would add a new element of control, according to Apple.
Though Apple’s patent application primarily describes a touchpad like those used for the company’s MacBook lines, one variant mentioned in the document would also allow for an LCD touchscreen with the same features, raising the possibility of an iPhone or other touch-sensitive computer with the new control scheme.
Computers, phones, PDAs, and control panels are listed as candidates for the technique.
Surely there must be some desperately implausible reason to fear this technology?
The Tubes Rule!
My impression is that Apple view’s the touch interface of the iPhone and iTouch the same as they view the trackpad on the MacBooks.
Is taking another step in terms of interaction fear-worthy? I don’t think so, but I do think it’s a good segment to attack: Keyboard/Video/Mouse really hasn’t changed in a long time.
If you think about it, this patent might apply to all sexual activity.
Ok,
I can see a few problems…
You REALLY want to use fingers on your monitor?? And for it to be Pressure sensitive, its either going to be Plastic, Or a membrane OVER the screen.
NOW think about all the hands in the world, from soft fingers to rough hands.
Now think of ergonomics…
I would think it could be done by by increasing the resoloution of detection and then measuring the area or changing area of initial touch b/c as you push harder your fingertip flattens and takes up more area.
What we need is a fingerprint resistant coating for touch screens, so they don’t get all smudged and greasy. Now that would be innovative.
For the above reasons touch screens have never taken off and I doubt they will this time.
The only improvements that would be actual improvements are voice control or biofeedback control.
Apple is attempting to copy Microsoft surface?
I’ve heard that Apple has also applied for a patent on a light-sensitive circuit located inside the case. So if you try to open your iPhone (to hack it) the circuit will automatically brick itself.
Is apple planning on making a prettier version of the HP TouchSmart IQ770 PC?
http://tinyurl.com/yoog8v
This will allow martial arts games take a new dimension… you can finally measure you Dim Mak…
Gesture recognition.
#13
Gesture recognition… I wonder if they’ll be able to pick up on non-touch gestures as well…
When will Apple learn not to waste money on foolish innovation. Everything worth having has already been invented.
“Surely there must be some desperately implausible reason to fear this technology?”
Considering how much Apple likes to overprice things imagine how obscenely expensive would be the royalty fees they would charge for licensing their products (if they ever allow it.)
Why don’t they do things as they usually do and let others invent it, then claim they came up with the idea first?
touch screens are next. voice recognition command will come after. and mind recognition after that!(no joke).
but, I still like my 5 button corded mouse. why get the screen dirty, get
a raspy voice or overwork your brain when your little fingers can do the job with little effort?
#18
“why get the screen dirty, get
a raspy voice or overwork your brain when your little fingers can do the job with little effort?”
Because Steve Jobs hates buttons.
Here’s what I want to see. A graphic configurable backlit touchpad, that replaces the computer mouse. All it has to do is sense one’s finger tip moving and tapping on the surface. And display some simple graphics for various specialized applications. Apple needs to think about replacing its one button mouse with this kind of thing.