Week 4 - Microsoft Surface

Properties of Microsoft Surface

1. Product in which users can manipulate digital content

2. Has direct interaction – no need for a mouse or keyboard, just direct touch (see above)

3. Has gesture recognition – it can follow you when you drag fingers etc

4. So you can “dip” your fingers in a palette to “paint”

5. Has object recognition – you can place cups, cards etc (see above)

6. For example, at a restaurant, the Surface can offer you more food choices based on the food that you have already placed on the table

7. Or, you can just drop a credit card on the table to pay for food!

8. Has multi-touch contact – can respond to up to 52 touches at a time

9. Therefore is also multi-user (see above! that's MANY hands on the same surface)

10. Currently, only 11 countries are developing applications for its interface

11. Customers are hospitality businesses, retail, military etc

12. Costs between $12,500 - $15,000 per developer unit

13. Microsoft hopes to make cheaper consumer versions soon

14. It’s already featured in one of my favourite shows – CSI Miami! =D

What I think about Microsoft Surface

1. I am certain that it will be well-received. "touch" interfaces will probably completely take over "non-touch" interfaces within the next few years, so Microsoft Surface will probably be set as a benchmark for the entire industry in future.

2. It will appeal greatly to commercial users, because it's VERY convenient. Hotels, restaurants etc will save a lot of money because they no longer have to hire as many service staff.

3. It will probably be very popular in the manufacturing industry as well, as it can help to provide a more holistic view of prototypes before they are made. (Remember how Tony Stark made his Ironman suit in the Ironman movie?)

4. Although Microsoft did say they aim to produce it for personal consumers by 2010, I doubt that's going to happen. It's still way too expensive, and I don't think the product has been out in the field long enough yet for them to make a suitable version for home use. Perhaps by 2013? =D

5. If ever it gets cheap enough for educational institutes to purchase, education would certainly take a very interesting turn! Students won't be as bored because now they have a good balance of textbook lessons and "hands-on" lessons. It's especially suited for classroom use because it's multi-user! Unlike PCs. =)

6. I would like to own one in future. =D Unless Apple manages to come up with an even better version of their iPad now...