Microsoft Mouse Phone?
Just when you thought you had heard every concept that was attempting to integrate X into a cell phone, Microsoft throws out another wild card. In a recent patent application, the Big Bad M has put together what is essentially a phone (with screen and keypad on one side), and a way to operate your computer (via touchpad) on the back. From the patent: "[It's a] system that facilitates navigating on a display, comprising: a mouse engine component that detects a location; and an interface component that integrates the mouse engine into a handheld communication device." Now, the design could be used to navigate on the phone, but obviously would require a much bigger screen than the picture in the patent application to be effective. Does the future of the handheld computer rest on this kind of technology?
sounds interesting, I know when holding my phone i always have a finger on the backside of it to hold it but not sure i would like using that to move a curser or something. Interesting idea but seems like it would be awkward.
I actually think this is useless combining certain technologies might not be the best idea when you think about it. This is most likely one of them.
I’m running my finger across the back of my Dash as we spe. . . err, uhh. . . type and laughing at the idea wonder how/if it will catch on
Nobody is going to buy that POS
I just tried the same experiment with my Dash and I could see how this could/would be useful.
I would think it would have to have some type of lock out feature to keep it from activating in a pocket but that could be solved by using a single button on the front of the phone to start/stop the touchpad.
I think it could have some real legs and be an alternative to that other touch phone we’ve all been hearing so much about lately.
Same concept, just moving the touch experience to the back of the phone instead of on the screen.
I don’t see why folks are being so negative to the concept.
Oh, right, I forgot. >”start sarcasm: Anything from Microsoft can’t possibly be anything good, useful, innovative or anything anybody would possiblly ever want to use. end sarcasm”
another apple idea watered down by the microsofties
very bad copy of this one:
http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/10/apple-patent-app-reveals-back-side-interface-for-handhelds/
Nah, I would like the Microsoft version better.
The Apple one is far too cluttered from the pictures you linked to.
Microsoft looks to try and keep it simple with a touchpad, nothing more.
Keep it simple.