Next Tech: The Invisible Keyboard

Soon, drumming your fingers on the conference room table may no longer be a sign of boredom. Instead, it may be a way to take notes.

By Suzanne Kantra Kirschner & Michael Moyer (Editors) | Published Jan 26, 2002 12:41 AM EST

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Switzerland-based Senseboard Technologies’ Senseboard.

Soon, drumming your fingers on the conference room table may no longer be a sign of boredom. Instead, it may be a way to take notes. How? Korea-based Samsung’s Scurry (below) and Switzerland-based Senseboard Technologies’ Senseboard (left) are virtual keyboards that use sensors on the back of your hands to track the movement
of your fingers. An onboard processor maps the location of each virtual key tap to a keyboard layout, then transmits the corresponding character wirelessly to a PDA, cellphone, or other mobile device. Both virtual keyboards will be available later this year. Prices not set.