AppleInsider StaffAlthough traditionally tight-lipped, Apple Inc. in a recent job posting has revealed plans to incorporate multi-touch display panels in more of its future products.
The Cupertino-based company said the individual will serve as a focal point in the designing and the process development of advanced multi-touch panels from concept to product ramp.
Among the many responsibilities that come with the job, Apple said, is that the new multi-touch panels be developed in such a way that they enable the best performance in both a functional and reliable way.
The ideal candidate, the company added, will need to have hands-on experience and proven track record in the design and development of the thin film process and its integration, or the front-end process in flat panel industry, including array, color filter and panel design.
"Experiences in developing and manufacturing high volume display products are preferred," Apple wrote.
Thus far, the consumer electronics maker has revealed plans to incorporate multi-touch displays only within its upcoming iPhone device. However, later this year it is expected to extend that technology to a new generation of its flagship video iPod players.
Malcolm Owen
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52 Comments
Hmm. This job posting, to me, more or less confirms that the technology won't be making it into Macs anytime soon... but that it almost definitely will in the not-too-far-off future (2008 perhaps).
Hmm. This job posting, to me, more or less confirms that the technology won't be making it into Macs anytime soon... but that it almost definitely will in the not-too-far-off future (2008 perhaps).
Not necessarily. They're probably *expanding* a team that already exists. I'm betting on Multi Touch iMacs at the release of Leopard, to showcase all 10.5's new capabilities...
Not necessarily. They're probably *expanding* a team that already exists. I'm betting on Multi Touch iMacs at the release of Leopard, to showcase all 10.5's new capabilities...
Based on that job posting ("lead the engineering activities to develop the new process and design for the multi-touch panel used in Apple products") I sure wouldn't count on that.
Knowing Apple, probably mid to late 2008 at the very earliest.
Wow, the possibilities are enormous here... Imagine a surface that serves as a screen, also a scanner, and charges your iPod if you place it on, just to name a couple of uses. A real keyboard will be hard to replace though...