Synaptics Incorporated, a developer of human interface solutions for mobile computing, communications, and entertainment devices, today introduced Fuse, a collaborative mobile phone concept, demonstrating the future of user interaction for handsets. Their contribution to LG’s GD900 Crystal was quite significant in its transparent keypad.
Integrating for the first time multiple interface technologies—including multi-touch capacitive sensing, haptic feedback, 3-D graphics and force, grip, and proximity sensing. In addition, Fuse demonstrates to device manufacturers the value of ecosystem collaborations providing a model for designing multi-modal interfaces that will optimize the user experience on the next-generation handheld device. Every step in the value chain affects and is affected by the end product.
Fuse’s innovative sensing technologies surrounding the entire device enables quick, intuitive, single-handed navigation. For example, grip sensing achieved via force and capacitive touch sensors on the sides of the phone allows the user to execute common controls such as pan and scroll. In addition to the side sensors, Fuse introduces for the first time, 2D navigation from the back of the phone. This feature offers yet another mode of single-handed control without obstructing the display or enhanced usability, Fuse combines multiple sensory input and feedback technologies including active 3-D graphics and next-generation haptic effects.
The Fuse mobile phone concept is the result of a unique collaboration between Synaptics and four global partners—TheAlloy, The Astonishing Tribe (TAT), Immersion, and Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI). Withhuman interface and digital lifestyle in mind, the Fuse design team created a stunning and functional user interface with innovative new modes of sensing input, and visual and haptic feedback.
Each partner provided valuable expertise and contributions to the project:
* TheAlloy led the user experience and overall product design efforts.
* TAT enabled the effective 3-D environment and lent their extensive user interface software design skills.
* Immersion made possible the tactile feedback, ensuring an integrated and satisfying experience.
* TI’s OMAP 3630 processor provided the framework and platform to leverage the enhanced multimedia, graphics and imaging features that consumers crave.
Additionally, Synaptics’ ClearPad, NavPoint, and TouchButtons solutions are used in the Fuse mobile concept to offer unique capabilities—such as two-finger input, proximity sensing, grip sensing, text entry, and high-resolution finger input—aimed at providing precise pointing and navigation that should dramatically improve and enhance the user experience with a touchscreen.