New touchscreen technology transforms into 3D buttons on command

Fancy using a touchscreen that morphs into real physical buttons on demand? This may soon be possible thanks to work by a California-based technology firm, Tactus Technology.

The firm’s new touchscreen technology presents a next-generation haptic user interface that offers newer ways of using touchscreen displays. The Tactile Layer™ technology can transform the flat surface of a smartphone or tablet touchscreen into real physical buttons.

The technology basically gives users the option for an on-demand keyboard. Other than just physical buttons, the Tactile Layer component also gives users other shapes that rise and disappear from the surface of any touchscreen on demand.

The morphing or transformation does not in any way affect the smooth and glossy, flat surface of the touch display. An innovative micro-level fluid control system allows the various buttons or shapes to rise and disappear swiftly.

The technology combines the touchscreen and the keyboard. According to Tactus Technology, the combination of the screen and keyboard will allow manufacturers to develop devices with new ergonomics and form factors.

The range of devices that can be used with the new Tactile Layer include tablets and PCs, personal navigation devices, medical devices, remote and home controls, gaming devices, eBook readers, auto displays and of course smartphones amongst others.

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