microsoft coffee table computer

[blueoval]

mods please delete if this is a repost

http://merciafm.co.uk/Article.asp?id=415254&spid=

Microsoft have unveiled a coffee-table-shaped "surface computer" which does away with the mouse and keyboard.

Instead these traditional functions will be replaced by more natural interaction using voice, pen and touch. Microsoft Surface, which has a 30-inch display under a hard-plastic tabletop, allows people to touch and move objects on screen. Chief Executive Steve Ballmer said: "We see this as a multi-billion dollar category, and we envision a time when surface computing technologies will be pervasive, from tabletops and counters to the hallway mirror." The device also interacts with devices placed on its surface, so mobile phone users can easily buy ringtones or change payment plans by placing their handsets on in-store displays.

Click on link above for video footage

[Allen]

So what happens when your coffee table crashes?
I can only imagen what its like on startup: "No touchscreen present - Press F1 to continue." lol

I think Microsoft are getting a little ahead of themselves... I dont really want my coffee table or mirror interacting with me... They are inanimate objects for a reason :P

[charles_wif_xf]

Originally Posted by fairlane_ghia

So what happens when your coffee table crashes?
I can only imagen what its like on startup: "No touchscreen present - Press F1 to continue." lol

I think Microsoft are getting a little ahead of themselves... I dont really want my coffee table or mirror interacting with me... They are inanimate objects for a reason :P

That's the first thing I thought of when I saw it on the news. :

[blueoval]

LOL yeah I can see your point. what happens if you spilt coffee on it? How do u reboot it? Im sure there are a million other questions people would like to ask.

But for 10k US price tag? dam thats pricey.

[Riksta]

Well, it does state that it will be under a hard plastic surface, I'm sure they've covered the spillage issue.

I haven't watched the video yet, only read it, but the image I have in my head is one of a glorified table-top arcade machine!

And my first question to the salesman would be, "can it run linux?" :P

[Quasi]

Originally Posted by Riksta

And my first question to the salesman would be, "can it run linux?" :P

And his response would likely be....."Most likely, but we prefer it to be more compatible with day to day needs".