Geek break

More speculation on Apple's patents:

The system shown uses a technique called Frustrated Total Internal Reflection (FTIR) to accomplish the tasks shown. It involves the use of a transparent screen with the images rear-projected onto it. For touch-sensing, a camera is placed behind the screen to detect the user interaction. A diagram of the setup is shown here.

The use of both a projector and rear-camera, of course, is not feasible in any potential laptop or tablet device from Apple... but conveniently enough, Apple has recently applied for a patent on an Integrated Sensing Display (diagram) providing a screen that can be used both as a display and as a camera

I think the implications of a multi-touch system are pretty staggering, and it seems Apple may actually be able to pull it off. Think about it - the mouse is an incredibly limited way to interact with information; it's very linear, as the cursor can manipulate only one point on screen. Humans are capable of much more, though - many creative or manipulative tasks in real space require the use of both hands for proper control, and this allows more nuanced interaction. A computer that could handle such input would free the user from the limitations of linear input, and could even stimulate different types of interaction with and understanding of data.