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CES 2013: Canopy Sensus Case Adds Touch Controls to the iPhone's Back

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Canopy's Sensus iPhone case (via Engadget) is touch-enabled, with 10 different touch input points across the back and the right side of the case. The touch input allows for users to interact with apps without blocking the screen with a finger, a useful function for iOS gaming. It is similar in design to the rear trackpad of Sony's PlayStation Vita.

sensuscase

The Sensus, which resembles a slightly thicker than average iPhone case, has integrated apps that are designed for the visually impaired, along with Braille entry on its touch panels. The company is working on additional apps and has released a software development kit for developers.

It is constructed from durable polycarbonate with rubber corners to protect the iPhone from bumps and falls. It comes equipped with a built-in processor that monitors touch input, and it is powered through the charging port of the iPhone.


At this point in time there is only a version for the iPhone 4/4S on display at CES, but the company is working on a version for Apple's iPhone 5.

Canopy's Sensus case will be available during the Summer of 2013, at a cost between $59 and $99.

Top Rated Comments

ECUpirate44 Avatar
173 months ago
Wait, summer of 13 and they demoed it on a 4S?
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
173 months ago
Canopy's Sensus case will be available during the Summer of 2013

So, now?

/Australia
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
ArtOfWarfare Avatar
173 months ago
Shame that it only works with a limited number of apps. If the case worked with anything and was basically a mirror of the front touch screen, I would buy that in a heartbeat.

I agree.

Alas, there's a vicious cycle that's likely to occur wiith this accessory that has occurred with many others:
They won't sell very well because there won't be many apps and there won't be many apps because it won't sell very well.
Score: 2 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Xenc Avatar
173 months ago
Ugh. That sounds complicated. It is contrary to Apple's entire design ethos.

The concept of touch based input shouldn't be complicated to an iPhone user. Having a sensor on the back is a cool idea and worked well for Sony with the Vita.
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Buschmaster Avatar
173 months ago
Cheapos for not licensing the 30 pin or the lighting port...... micro usb really. Yes every other phone uses them but a household that is all iphones would not have many laying around.. yet another cable to buy
It comes with one, I believe. Their previous cases did.

I've worked with this company before. They're based in Minneapolis, not far from my company. Their SDK is fairly non-complicated so hopefully lots of developers can take advantage of this.
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)
173 months ago
Wouldn't mind getting my hands on this (pun intended)
Score: 1 Votes (Like | Disagree)