Microsoft recently unveiled a reconfigured version of its large-scale table-top computer, called "Surface," showing off groundbreaking sensor technology and aiming to break into corporate markets.
The Redmond, Wash.-based software giant, who originally introduced the Surface in 2007, said its new touch-table table is thinner and lighter. It features a 40-inch LED display panel bonded to rugged "Gorilla" glass, Corning's damage-resistance material. The panel, which is only four inches thick, can be placed horizontally on stands or counter tops, or mounted on vertical surfaces, kiosk-style.
Each display has full PC capabilities, with Windows 7, and runs on Duo-Core processors.
Microsoft said the Surface will cost $7,600, down from the original price of $15,000,
and be available in 23 countries, including the U.S. and Canada, later this year.
and be available in 23 countries, including the U.S. and Canada, later this year.
"Two years ago, this was not possible from a technology standpoint," said Panos Panay, general manager of Microsoft's Surface project.
The Surface, which is manufactured by Samsung, uses a new breakthrough technology, called "PixelSense," which can "see" objects on its surface. Two million sensors are built into the panel, placed between each pixel, which can pick up visible or infrared light. Each pixel functions as an individual "camera" and can pick up information such as a product bar code or a gesture, effectively turning the entire display into a touch screen.
PixelSense helps the Surface pick up a wide variety of information, potentially making the device useful for businesses, retail outlets and other corporate customers.
"It's not an experiment or fun project on the side," Panay said. "It's a technology innovation that we think we can use to bring walls and tables to life."