Sam Oliver
Taiwanese industry publication DigiTimes said that Sintek Photronics has sent samples of capacitive touch panels to Apple for a new touchsreen all-in-one iMac desktop computer. The report claimed that the new hardware will have screen sizes of 20 inches and greater.
"The new iMac is rumored to have a good vertical and horizontal viewing angle, and its projected capacitive touch panel will adopt a one-glass solution, which integrates the touch sensor and cover glass, to reduce thickness and weight," the report said.
It noted that most touch panels are made by placing the sensor over the panel, and are then covered with glass. But it is said this method is costly, complex, and results in a dimmer screen.
It was said that Sintek Photronics "has a good chance" of becoming a supplier for the alleged new line of iMacs. No projected release date for the rumored hardware was given.
In January of this year, rumors indicated that a 22-inch touchscreen iMac would launch this year. But the claims in Friday's report that Apple is still testing touch panels would suggest that a 2010 launch is not likely.
A number of patent applications from Apple this year show touch-capable iMac-style desktop computers. One interesting filing shows a machine that could operate in a traditional format, but with a hinge on the back that would allow it to be tilted for easier access for a user's fingertips.
Another application described a desktop screen that could detect shapes and objects pressed against it. It described a machine that would allow new types of input, such as a security system that required a physical key to be pressed against the screen and detected.
Bon Adamson
Wesley Hilliard
Marko Zivkovic
AppleInsider Staff
Malcolm Owen
Christine McKee
135 Comments
Totally logical progression, a merging of OS X and iOS features on more powerful machines.
Ports will have to move to the stand from the back of the screen as now since the screen moves so much. Assuming it has ports!
What good are patents? PC makers will copy this with an Android - Chrome lash up immediately.
I see the limitations of touch screens quite often on my iPad. Just give me USB 3 on the current iMac and I'm sold ;-)
That hinge that allow bringing down the screen to the touchscreen position will just be a source of complaints from customers. I have never seen a non-counterbalanced hinge that with constant use doesn't loosen in time. And without a counterbalance, imagine what the weight of the base should be to prevent the monitor/CPU from tipping into the desk when in the touchscreen position. The second hinge at the back of the monitor will also loosen up in time.
Rumors of a touchscreen desktop iMac continue to persist, with a new report on Friday alleging that Apple is testing potential displays for the supposed hardware.
This all seems very familiar -- haven't we seen this in a previous patent or rumor?
On another forum I saw someone suggesting that in vertical mode you have OS X and in horizontal mode iOS - nice idea!
Apple seems not only to be eager to revolutionise the phone or for the first time successfully introduce a new device category - they want to revolutionise our entire digital life. I can't really see that a desktop computer can really benefit from a touch sensitive screen. I would rather prefer a keyboard that gets a large additional touch sensitive pad. There have been numerous studies on the net that I really liked. But let's see.