Is the Surprising Tablet Interface a Dynamic Surface?

Apple's forthcoming tablet could employ a dynamic surface that gives users tactile feedback when typing in order to identify individual keys, reports AppleInsider.

Using an "articulating frame," the surface of such a device would create physical bumps or dots for the user to feel when it is in keyboard mode. Those surface features would retract and disappear when the device is not being used to type. It is detailed in an patent application entitled "Keystroke Tactility Arrangement on a Smooth Touch Surface."

"The articulating frame may provide key edge ridges that define the boundaries of the key regions or may provide tactile feedback mechanisms within the key regions," the application reads. "The articulating frame may also be configured to cause concave depressions similar to mechanical key caps in the surface."


Interestingly, just yesterday the NYTimes released a report which cites a recently departed Apple employee who said, “You will be very surprised how you interact with the new tablet.”

Could this dynamic surface be the surprising tablet interface?

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