Switchfast Blog: The Future of IT
Microsoft's Arc Touch Mouse: Productivity Booster or Bummer?
Wednesday, August 18, 2010 by Bryan Anderson
Nothing beats a classic keyboard and mouse setup for desktop
computers, but the birth of alternative input devices like Apple's
newest Magic Trackpad has given desktop users a choice between
classical setups and new technology. User experience and feedback
has proven a need for faster input methods and seamless interaction
with evolving interfaces. While Apple's multi-touch technology
flourishes, Microsoft appears to be preparing its own multi-touch
device to compete in the market for integrated input devices.
The Arc Touch mouse, a product yet to be announced officially,
offers the look and customized feel of a mouse while providing a
"touch" part that allows touch-based scrolling instead of using a
physical scroll wheel. While Apple's device comes in one shape and
structure (flat), Microsoft's entry retains the ability to "curve
for comfort," meaning a mouse experience for those of traditional
input techniques and a touchpad experience for the more progressive
types.
According to a DailyTech.com article, the glossy item "still
relies on RF technology and a USB 'nano transceiver' for
connectivity instead of Bluetooth". The author also points out that
the flattened device makes it "easier to transport".
From Engadget.com, the mouse "features touch
scrolling, a battery indicator, the ability to track on most any
surface, and a transceiver that no doubt plugs into your laptop's
USB port".
The technology is certainly nothing new to consumers - touch
screen phones, monitors, and selective screens are taking over
traditional physical input peripherals like the keyboard and mouse.
The movement to mobile has cut down the practicality of using a
separate input device. The transition to touchpad technology can be
attributed to laptop and smartphone technology usage, as consumers
get more comfortable with touch-scrolling instead of
click-scrolling.
But does this "futuristic" input method increase productivity
within a workplace? Mixing new technology with existing users can
be difficult, but if the process improves these aspects this new
device could be a worthwhile investment for improved
efficiency:
Comfort. Going through day to day tasks, some
may overlook comfort. In reality, a traditional mouse is not a
one-size-fits-all. While one user may benefit from the size and
build of a traditional desktop mouse, others choose a contoured fix
to holding or using a mouse.
Intuitive. Touch-based data input can reduce
physical stress on fingers and hands as the total force decreases
due to the advanced technology. A physical scroll-wheel can be
awkwardly placed, forcing users out of their comfort level, thus
making the motion a burden more than a benefit.
Easy to Adapt. Like the smartphone market,
certain companies will continue to provide physical keyboards with
smartphones while others will dive all-in with touchscreen
technology. In a sense, the Arc Touch will unravel the same way
with desktop data input - not all users will intuitively understand
a touchpad. Some of the common complaints are touch sensitivity or
lack of beneficial proof. While the former is a hardware feature,
the latter may not hold true if data input sees a major improvement
with touchpad technology integrated in desktop environments.
Until next time -
Matthew Hymel
Switchfast Technologies
Chicago IT Support &
Consulting
Rochester
IT Support & Consulting
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