Probably the biggest disappointment for Google Nexus One at launch was the missing multi-touch functionality. Fear not loyal Google Phone users, an update has been sent your way which will have you pinching to zoom in phone’s Browser, Gallery and Maps applications. Google has also provided a fix for the 3G issues in the update. Google Maps have also been updated with new features and Google Goggles is included too.
Multi Touch
Microsoft drops a tablet bomb on Apple and it’s called Courier Booklet
As expected, Microsoft has unveiled their new secret tablet via Gizmodo, and it has one up’d the mythical Apple tablet big time! Instead of taking a tablet like approach of a single screen, the Microsoft Courier uses two 7-inch screens that take both multi-finger touch input as well as recognize stylus writing and drawing. In the middle of the two screens in a hinge which houses a single button. On the back of the booklet is a camera, and according to Gizmodo, it might charge through induction.
How to enable multi-touch in Firefox 3.5
Firefox 3.5 had experimental support for multi-touch gestures through out beta, but in the final version the support has been hidden by default. The gestures were compatible with Macbooks and Macbook Pros that have multi-touch enabled track-pads. These multi-touch gestures for tab switching can be enabled by the following instructions:
Another hands on video of the Zune HD
The folks at Engadget just keep getting their hands on the Zune HD, one way or the other. They’ve got another new hands on video of the Zune HD up and it shows the same eye candy that we’ve already seen. As you’ll see in the video, the Zune HD is slimmer than the iPhone, and looks really small in the user’s hands. Yes, there’s nothing else new to see in the video if you’ve already seen the past hands on videos. I can’t wonder why they couldn’t just use the browser in the video for demonstration. Anyhow, here’s the video below of the Zune HD with all its Tegra powered goodness.
iPhone OS running on a multi-touch Widescreen monitor
Zune HD Confirmed; Releasing this fall
The Zune HD has finally been confirmed by Microsoft after some time of speculation on the interwebs. Although, they haven’t given out much details on the specifications yet, the Zune HD will come with a lower OLED resolution than was being rumored along with integration with Xbox Live and Zune Marketplace. Zune HD will be available in new markets but no word on which countries will see it this fall. Microsoft hasn’t told about the storage capacities as well. Although it is clear that it’ll be available in at least 2 colors, a platinum and a black one (shown below). It’ll also utilize a new Dock for HD video output at 720p.
More news are expected at the E3 conference, where "attendees will see first-hand how Zune integrates into Xbox LIVE creating a game-changing entertainment experience" according to Engadget.
Check out the official Zune HD website.
Touchscreen
Get quick and instant access to your content with multi-touch navigation. With a 3.3 inch screen and vivid 16:9 OLED display (480×272 resolution), premium entertainment is at your fingertips.
HD Radio
Tune into all your favorite stations with crystal clear reception. With an integrated HD Radio receiver, you can access a variety of HD Radio stations at no additional cost. Plus, tag the songs you like for later purchase.
HD Video Out
Watch supported 720p HD movies, TV shows and videos in high definition on your HDTV through the Zune HD & AV Dock (sold separately). Or take them with you for premium entertainment on the go. Additional dock and HDTV are required.*
Wireless
Connect, update, and buy content wirelessly from Wi-Fi hot spots. Stream millions of songs over Wi-Fi directly to your Zune HD and turn it into a portable digital jukebox.
Web Browser
Surf the web anytime, anywhere you have a Wi-Fi connection. Enjoy your favorite websites with a full-featured web browser including tap to zoom technology, built-in accelerometer, and touchscreen QWERTY keyboard.
VPlay from Microsoft Research – Multi-Touch for VJs
VPlay is a research project by Microsoft Research based on a multi-touch like a Surface Computer, which allows users to manipulate video in real time. Using real time interaction, VJing is made possible on a multi-touch surface which provides new possibilities, unique interfaces and interesting human computer interaction. Different objects on the surface represent different real world objects such as mixers.
It’s not really a new concept, as a whitepaper on it titled ‘VideoPlay: Playful and Social Editing of Video using Tangible Objects and Multi-touch Interaction’ was published in October 2007
VideoPlay is a novel tabletop system for editing video using tangible objects and multi-touch interaction. It targets the unique capabilities of the Microsoft Surface platform which supports high precision multi-touch and physical object sensing and tracking. New interaction techniques are presented that allow content to be downloaded from mobile devices onto the table. Physical tiles representing video clips, transitions and effects can be assembled and locked together with the aid of embedded magnets to create new video sequences. The intention is to support playful interaction, making the process of video editing more collaborative and engaging when compared to traditional techniques.