New Tablet Simulates The Feeling Of Touching An Alligator, Plucking A Harp

Aren't slick and smooth tablet screens beyond passé? A prototype tablet from Japnese firm, Fujitsu, premiered at this week's Mobile World Conference that uses ultrasound vibrations to make the surface of the device mimic various textures. From the skin of an alligator to the sensation of plucking a harp, this could change our personal experiences with smart devices, and provide for some serious improvements within entertainment media.

According to The Daily Mail, Fujitsu said, "While technologies already exist that convey texture by vibrating the touch screen display panel itself or by generating static electricity, Fujitsu Laboratories has developed the industry's first technology to use ultrasonic vibrations to convey tactile sensations by varying the friction between the touch screen display and the user's finger."

The currently unnamed device includes a layer beneath the screen that reduces friction and varies the ultrasonic vibrations, yielding a "floating effect," of sorts, allowing the tablet to even mimic the sensation of touching water. The Daily Mail also noted that Disney Research developed a similar system back in October, prompting 2D touch screens to feel like water, metal, and more (see images below).

While we don't know if this prototype will be turned into a consumer product, the mind reels at the possible video games that could be developed with this tech.

Images via Disney Research Pittsburgh

H/T The Daily Mail