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The new technology can completely change the way we use augmented reality. Instead of waving our hands in the air or using controllers, all you need to do is... touch the desk. Scientists have demonstrated a solution that allows any flat surface to be turned into a touch interface. No additional hardware, no sensors, and no configuration required. This could solve one of the biggest problems of AR, which is hand fatigue during prolonged use.
How "screenless touch" works
The technology developed by Tohoku University utilizes a simple physical effect – when you press your finger against a surface, the skin momentarily turns white. This so-called blanching effect is detected by cameras in AR headsets and then interpreted as a click. The AI analyzes the image in real-time and recognizes the moment of contact, allowing the system to respond like a traditional touchscreen. Importantly, it works on regular surfaces like a desk or a wall, without any additional components.
More Convenient and Natural AR
The biggest advantage is user comfort. Instead of keeping your hands in the air, you can rest them on a surface and act naturally, like with a laptop or smartphone. Tests show that the solution works stably and allows for precise task execution. This could be a big step towards more practical AR that is actually suitable for work, not just short demonstrations. If the technology makes it to commercial devices, it could significantly enhance everyday use of headsets.
The new approach eliminates one of the biggest problems of AR and shows that the future of interfaces can be simpler than it seems. Instead of new devices, it is enough to cleverly utilize what we already have around us.
source: digitaltrends.com
