InTouch interface developed, allows media transfer via touch between devices

Scientists have developed a new technology whereby a ring, structure nail or wristband acts as a user interface allowing files to be transferred directly from one screen to another by touch.

The new InTouch user interfaces can allow you to touch a file on one screen, for example, with a structure nail and transfer it through the nail to your friend's smartphone or even to your car.

From end user viewpoint the data transfer between devices is currently handled using memory sticks, short-range point-to-point connections (for example, Bluetooth) or the cloud (sharing services).

The solution, developed by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, allows files to be received, sent and shared more easily than before.

The InTouch user interface operates with touch screens and allows file transfer either directly or via a cloud service.

The new concept also enables entirely new kinds of interactive devices and product categories, and opens up new business possibilities, researchers claim.

Areas of application might include digital devices, cars, the manufacturing industry, logistics and health care. There is a patent pending for the technology.