Synaptics keyboard and trackpad is going to make laptops even thinner

Problems

Windows users have a problem:

We spend an awful lot of time in laptop reviews railing against modern trackpads — you know, the ones that mistake left clicks for right ones, or have a really stiff button mechanism.

No mechanics

Synaptics has released details on it’s ForcePad trackpad. It’s pressure sensitive and recognizes 64 different levels of sensitivity. There is tactile feedback, just not your typical mechanical click.

It also does Multitouch, which is something that Mac users have grown dependent on. The trackpad can recognize 5 fingers at once.

Thinner, and better?

Synaptics is also pitching to OEMs a thinner keyboard that allows for slimmer PCs. The idea being that manufacturers can create Windows computers with battery life closer to Macs.

There’s a capacitive sensor underneath the keyboard, allowing the laptop’s touchpad to be disabled automatically while you’re typing. (Naturally, this works best if the trackpad is also made by Synaptics.) The company is also developing a feature in which the space bar could be a touch sensor in and of itself, with support for functions like autocomplete.

Patience

Unfortunately the trackpad and keyboard won’t hit the market until January. If you can’t wait that long I guess you could buy a computer made by Apple.

Image Source: Engadget

Joshua Howland

Joshua is a mobile application developer, entrepreneur, and technology enthusiast. His favorite posts are comparing companies and products. He loves sports and start ups and talks about them (along with tech) on Twitter (@jkhowland) and his blog (jkhowland.me).