14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft Research has created a brand new keyboard that supports gestures and improves the working experience on Windows 8 by allowing users to quickly switch between apps or take advantage of features implemented in the Modern UI.
Basically, the keyboard looks pretty much like a standard one, but has some sensors underneath its cover that makes it possible to detect gestures you make by simply moving the hand over the keys.
The keyboard automatically detects the position of the hand and also works with a number of applications available on Windows 8, such as Bing Maps, but also with Office, which basically makes switching between documents faster and easier, without the need for touching the device.
As you can see in the video above, the concept keyboard seems to work very well right now, although there are absolutely no details regarding a potential production version that could see daylight in the coming months.
Another great use for the keyboard would be gaming, although playing a Windows 8 title without a controller could be a bit difficult at first.
“Our goal is to enable fast, easy, and low effort gestures allowing users to smoothly transition between text entry and motion-based content. Gestures can enhance traditional desktop interaction too. For example, switching between applications using gesture above the keyboard or navigating documents with course wipes is very fast. Pinch to zoom in and even gaming such as controlling this race car with a virtual steering wheel is also possible,” Microsoft says in the video demonstration posted on YouTube.
Microsoft hasn't yet provided any specifics about the device, but it could be a little bit expensive if it's indeed released to the public.
On the other hand, such a product that combines a traditional keyboard, a trackpad and Kinect-based gesture recognition could really help improve the desktop experience on Windows 8, especially as the company works to make its modern operating system easier and more familiar regardless of the device your are using.
Keep in mind, however, that this is a project created by Microsoft Research and in many cases, their products remain in a concept form and never hit the market, so do not be too surprised if you'll never get the chance to purchase such a tablet. The idea seems to be really great, so let's just hope that Microsoft goes on with the development and releases such a keyboard for everyone.
