Apple Responds to Microsoft, Files Broad Multi-Touch Patent

The next version of Windows, code named Windows 7, will include support for a multi-touch user interface. As a result, Apple has taken a precautionary step by filing a patent application seeking the creation of multi-touch sensitive desktop Macs. The filing (US Patent #20080165141) also suggests multi-touch approach beyond handhelds, notebooks and desktops. Microsoft is expected to launch Windows 7 in late 2009 or early 2010. Back in May, in a posting on Windows Vista Team blog, Microsoft demonstrated its upcoming multi-touch technology in a video presentation. The next Windows OS will include multi-touch powered tools for editing and arranging digital photos, as well as interactive mapping applications similar to the Concierge offering developed by Microsoft’s Surface team. According to Apple’s latest invention, “gestural inputs of a human hand over a touch/proximity sensitive device can be used to control, edit, and manipulate files, such as media files including without limitation graphical files, photo files and video files.” Apple’s filing also demonstrates how zooming may be used to control a peripheral device such as a camera. For example, when the finger is spread apart, the camera zooms out, and when the fingers are closed the camera zooms in. Additionally, Apple’s patent filing illustrates an embodiment of the invention for manipulating the replay and recording of audio or musical files, editing/playback functions of video files, performing a circular touch on the photo, Apple’s application dock, drag and drop feature, a photo management screen and more. By Ms.Bobby Aanand, Metropolitan Jury.

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