Microsoft Surface vs. SapceTime - real implementation of 'cool" UI

So there is quite a lot of buzz around the unveiling of several new UI related products - the MS Surface computer and the new SpaceTime 3D search engine/browser (see the links to TechCrunch posts). As far as UI goes the concept of enhancing the GUI with 3D graphics and intuitive interfaces has been around for quite a while. Take a look at BumpTop or the great UI in the Moxi set-top-box. Not surprisingly MS Research had a long time 3D desktop project which was probably the pre cursor to some of the new stuff. As I said in the past - cool 3D UI is limited in its usability due to I/O issues - this is what will make the difference between really useful products and eye candy. With all the deep rooted "issues" we all have with MS - the surface computer is a real breakthrough in the paradigm as it combines 3D with natural input techniques to render (what looks like) a superior UX. I wonder if there are any plans to incorporate more 3D input beyond the multi touch screen. Something like a 3D pen (see Epos) could add depth to the experience...



MC