Microsoft has revealed plans this week to acquire Perceptive Pixel, the manufacturers of large touchscreen tablets ranging from 27 inches up to 82 inches in size. Watch the video after the jump to see it in action and get a feel for the size of the tablets.
The announcement was made by Microsoft at the end of the keynote at its Worldwide Partners Conference in Toronto. Kurt DelBene, president of Microsoft’s Office Division, explained:
“The acquisition of PPI [Perceptive Pixel] allows us to draw on our complementary strengths, and we’re excited to accelerate this market evolution,”-“PPI’s large touch displays, when combined with hardware from our [manufacturing partners], will become powerful Windows 8-based PCs and open new possibilities for productivity and collaboration.”-“It’s going to be the hottest tech item this Christmas, I tell ya,”-“Steve’s got one on the wall in his office and he’s using it all the time. He’s the biggest fan of the thing.”
Terms of the deal have not been disclosed by either party, and no timetable has been announced for the Perceptive Pixel integration.
The Impact on the Tech Industry
The acquisition of Perceptive Pixel by Microsoft is expected to have a significant impact on the tech industry, particularly in the realm of large touchscreen devices. Perceptive Pixel is renowned for its advanced multi-touch technology, which has been utilized in various sectors including education, business, and media. By integrating this technology with Microsoft’s existing hardware and software ecosystem, the potential for innovation is immense.
For instance, in educational settings, large touchscreen tablets can transform the way teachers deliver lessons and how students interact with educational content. Imagine a classroom where students can collaborate on a digital whiteboard, solving problems and sharing ideas in real-time. This could revolutionize the learning experience, making it more interactive and engaging.
Future Applications and Possibilities
In the business world, these large touchscreen devices can enhance productivity and collaboration. Teams can work together on projects more efficiently, using the touchscreens to brainstorm, plan, and execute tasks. The integration with Windows 8-based PCs means that these devices will be compatible with a wide range of software applications, further expanding their utility.
Moreover, the media industry stands to benefit greatly from this acquisition. Newsrooms and studios can use large touchscreens for interactive presentations, data visualization, and more. The ability to manipulate large amounts of data with intuitive touch gestures can make complex information more accessible and understandable to audiences.
Another exciting possibility is the use of these large touchscreens in public spaces such as museums, airports, and shopping malls. Interactive kiosks and information boards can provide users with a wealth of information at their fingertips, enhancing their experience and making navigation easier.
While the exact terms of the deal and the timeline for integration remain undisclosed, the potential applications of Perceptive Pixel’s technology within Microsoft’s ecosystem are vast. This acquisition could pave the way for a new era of interactive technology, where large touchscreen devices become a common feature in various aspects of daily life.
As we await further details on the integration process, it’s clear that Microsoft’s acquisition of Perceptive Pixel is a strategic move aimed at bolstering its position in the tech industry. By leveraging Perceptive Pixel’s expertise in multi-touch technology, Microsoft is poised to deliver innovative solutions that could redefine how we interact with digital content.
Source: Venture Beat : The Register
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