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Patent: Apple Details Multi-Touch Mac User Interface

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An Apple patent application published today rehashes some concepts and diagrams from 2006 patent but generates continued interest due to persistant rumors that Apple may release a multi-touch tablet Mac.

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AppleInsider details some of the techniques in accessing small user interface controls when using your fingers on a multi-touch tablet Mac:

Apple explains that on a tablet Mac, the buttons of a control box may be smaller than a users finger and located close together. Therefore it may be difficult for the user to make a selection directly without possibly pressing an undesirable button. To solve this problem, at least a portion of the control box would be enlarged, including the buttons therein when the user places their thumb over the control box.

Apple also details the use of swipe and scrolling to manipulate on screen lists as well as the implementation of a full screen multi-touch keyboard.:

121138 keyboard

While we've heard rumors of a tablet Mac for years, this year we've heard claims that either a tablet or mini-tablet Mac could be coming soon.