Rumors of Apple unveiling a new device, which will probably be called the iTablet, may be real. Earlier this week, Apple filed a patent application for a multitouch surface designed for 2-hands that distinguishes between palms and individual fingers for typing, gestures and more.
See one potential “look” for the iTablet courtesy of Gizmodo.
While a multitouch device is not uncommon (any MacBook user would relate), what is unique is that Apple is actually working on “multi-hand” device per the recent patent app. The multi-hand device can translate actions depending on what you’re doing, typing, handwriting, or just letting your hands rest on the device.
You have to ask yourself – - – would you buy an iTablet from Apple? Or, is Apple even in development of the rumored iTablet device? Has Steve Jobs seen too many clips of the Minority Report (interactive UI clip below)?
The potential of a “multi-hand” interface for computing could be revolutionary. Its potential first form, as an iTablet, may not be the most interesting use – but future applications could be limitless. No more keyboard, no more mouse.
One can only guess at this time. Rumors are the device will not appear until early 2010, if at all. That being said, since Jobs’s returned to the company after his recent leave of absence, this project has reportedly been his number one focus. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.
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