Updated Surface Thinner and Smarter

A new version of the Surface multitouch computer platform included in the Samsung SUR40 for Microsoft Surface debuted in Jan. 2011. Capable of reading 50 or more simultaneous touch points and performing simple object recognition, Surface is best known in the form of tabletop entertainment devices (such as a music memorabilia application at Hard Rock Cafes around the world). However, the new thinner device that can be used both horizontally and vertically (hung on a wall) will be available in 2011, and it may allow developers to broaden Surface’s use for additional enterprise scenarios. New hardware and software will improve object recognition, although many uses will still require specially labeled objects.

PixelSense

The key new feature of the Samsung SUR40 is PixelSense technology, which uses infrared sensors in the LCD panel so that the Surface software can better recognize fingers, hands, and objects placed on the screen. PixelSense enhances object recognition, which in combination with Surface’s ability to recognize more than 50 simultaneous touch points, means that applications can be highly interactive by immediately interpreting touch, multitouch, and objects placed on the display.