Much has been heard on Microsoft’s Windows 8 operating system
which already has consumer preview version released. What makes the operating
system interesting is the fact that it is touch based and it is from this very
feature that something confusing builds up from:how will the desktop users
experience the feature(touch)? Microsoft seems more than comfortable with the
disruption — which is refreshing to see from the company — but it will still
need to give desktop users tools with which the new OS can be operated.
Originally it seemed like all the touch controls and new conventions would be
additive and desktop users could just ignore them if they wanted, but that
might not have to be the case. With the $40 Microsoft Touch mouse users without a touch display will be
able to swipe, slide, and pinch their way through Windows 8.
Microsoft’s Touch mouse has been available for the
better part of a year and touch gestures in Windows are nothing new, but we
know that they will play a prominent role in Windows in the future. This mouse,
and ones like it, could bring multitouch controls to the desktop-using masses,
making them both affordable and accessible. It could be one of the tools that
let’s Windows 8′s designers achieve both their user experience and HCI goals.
Of course the mouse will work with laptops, but
trackpads will be a lot more convenient and popular option. With laptops
outselling desktops these days there is no question that the trackpad will be
the primary gesture tool in Windows 8. And the Touch mouse will never be for
Microsoft what the Magic Trackpad is for Apple — the canonical device by which
Apple’s laptop and mobile device interactions are shifted to the desktop — but
it could still play an important part in allowing desktop users to take
advantage of the features that Windows 8 offers.
With the mandate that Windows 8 “work[s] like a
device, not a computer” it’s clear that Microsoft is banking on products like
this one to bridge the gap between different classes of users and different
modes of Windows usage. If you think that’s strong language, thecompany also noted that it wants “touch as a first-class
input method” and that it’s “embracing” touch on the desktop. How do you do
that without a refresh to most of the displays in the world and a some nasty
cases of “gorilla arm“? A capacitive, multitouch-capable
mouse of course.
The final piece to this puzzle is Microsoft’s
announcement in February that the Touch mouse will be updated for Windows 8. Specific changes were
not mentioned, but I’ve been told that there will be more gestures and better
gesture compatibility once Windows 8 hits GA status. Swipes will be able to
handle tasks like summoning Windows 8′s charms and app bar, as well
as switching between programs. Nothing you can’t with the keyboard, but
with the focus on touch it’s important to give desktop users an option.
Written by thecodewhiz
Thecodewhiz is a tech savvy internet enthusiast,Designer,ICT Support Specialist, amatuer Dj and Photographer who loves sharing information.Find Technology tips and tricks and more here...
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