Microsoft Aims at Purchasing Perceptive Pixel

Today, Redmond-based software giant Microsoft announced plans to acquire Perceptive Pixel Inc. (PPI), a leading developer of multi-touch display solutions.

The two companies have entered a definitive agreement under which Microsoft will incorporate the PPI, a leader in the research, development and production of multi-touch technologies.

The move comes in line with Microsoft’s latest increased interest in touch, which also included the heavy optimization of its upcoming Windows 8 platform for use on devices that support such input methods.

“The acquisition of PPI allows us to draw on our complementary strengths, and we’re excited to accelerate this market evolution,” said Kurt DelBene, president, Office Division for Microsoft.

“PPI’s large touch displays, when combined with hardware from our OEMs, will become powerful Windows 8-based PCs and open new possibilities for productivity and collaboration.”

PPI was founded in 2006 by Jeff Han, a renowned pioneer in multi-touch technology, and managed to ship its first multi-touch workstation in early 2007.

The company’s technology gained momentum in 2008, providing CNN and other broadcasters with new ways of covering the U.S. presidential election.

PPI’s patented technologies are already being used in a wide range of industries, including government, defense, broadcast, engineering and higher education.

The company’s expertise in software and hardware is expected to contribute to success scenarios that include collaboration, meetings and presentations.

“We are incredibly excited to be working together on our mutual passion to build technologies that enable people to collaborate and communicate,” Han said.

“By joining Microsoft, we will be able to take advantage of the tremendous momentum of the Microsoft Office Division, tightly interoperate with its products, and deliver this technology to a very broad set of customers.”

No specific info on the terms of the deal has been provided for the time being. However, the two announced that the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, and that it is pending regulatory approval.