Microsoft 'Shift': potential new touch interface

I just noticed Colin Walker's mention of the Microsoft "Shift" research project. No, it has nothing to do with the HTC Shift directly, but it does indirectly. In fact, the approach is relevant to all touchscreen devices!

The Shift project recognizes that it can be cumbersome and time consuming to grab a stylus for screen interaction, especially when that interaction might be one single tap before putting the stylus away. Unfortunately, with smaller screens we've seen small touch interfaces, so in today's world the stylus is  often needed. With Shift, the interface can be manipulated in small areas by re-rendering the target area where the user can see it, i.e.: not hidden under the finger. Additionally, there's an easy to see offset cursor in the re-rendered area, providing visual feedback to show exactly what you're pointing at. Very interesting and if my description was lacking (it's hard to describe!), then hop over to the Shift project page for a brief video demo. After you watch it, let me know what you think because I see real potential here.

Comments

[Bobby Chapman]

I found the concept interesting.But I've never had a problem selecting anything on my Q1 and have never been drawn to use a windows mobile OS device. I'll stick with mf Q1 and a
bluetooth phone for internet use.

[James Kendrick]

That whole offset cursor thing drove me so batty in Vista that Iimmediately turned it off

[Mike Cane]

Now THAT is slick! (Huge fekkin video, but ultimately worth it!)

The only problem I have with this is that MS already takes up CPU cycles looking for Tap & Hold. This will shear off more cycles to determine Shift -- PLUS, CPU cycles to determine if TnH or Shift is called for.

No free lunch still!