Microsoft Surface...

[dclamp]

The demo videos have been online for quite some time... but do you think it will happen any time soon?

[kregg]

Since I was at a Microsoft Student Technology Day, and they happened to show this, I think they predict that the surface is going to be in everyone home in about 10-15 years time. They are selling these now and do have some customers. It's really only a matter of time.

Here is a video of the event. It's poor quality, but it will do for the moment.

[dclamp]

i looked into it more, and it seems like only a few large companies are able to buy them, atm.

it seems like it is just bluetooth with multitouch capabilities...

[Kasracer]

Windows 7 will include multi-touch APIs and functionality built in so I expect things like Surface to start getting really big a year or so after Windows 7 is released. It really is cool technology.

Also, I don't believe it's bluetooth (or it's not entirely bluetooth) as I believe you're required to place the objects onto the surface itself. I think they said it uses some RFID technology as you can place credit cards on top of the table and pay for things.

[dclamp]

is it aimed more for business or home users?

[Kasracer]

is it aimed more for business or home users?

Windows 7 or the touch API? Windows 7, like all versions of Windows, will be aimed toward both though I'd imagine it will be a little skewed toward customers since Server 2008 recently came out. As for the API... I don't really know. There are tons of applications for it.

I believe Microsoft is either releasing a Multi-touch SDK soon or already has for Vista.

[dclamp]

oh of course. i forgot microsoft doesnt do the hardware part. What company made the hardware for the Surface?

[RobDog888]

Surface is already getting old. Its currently in use in one or more of the major hotels in LA. I seen a piece on it where they have it in the Sheraton hotel chain in most major cities.