Synaptics' New Touchscreen Controller to Bring 3D Touch to Android Phones

When Apple took the wraps off its new iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus last month, 3D Touch was one of the features that was considered to be the highlight of the new models. Huawei however is considered to be the 'first' to debut the Force Touch pressure-sensitive touch technology on smartphones with its Mate S smartphone at IFA.

We may soon see more smartphones coming with the similar technology thanks to Synaptics' ClearForce pressure-sensitive touch solution for Android smartphones. The company claims that its new ClearForce solution will allow handset manufacturers to offer interfaces which can differentiate between speed scrolling, zoom, gaming, and text or even allow performing certain functions such as photo editing by applying variable force with a finger or stylus.

Synaptics expects its new touch controller to ship with force-enabled smartphones in early 2016 and notes that it has been working closely with OEMs and LCMs. The company lists some of the functions that can take benefit of its new ClearForce solution including variable speed scrolling, picture zoom and panning, function preview and selection, variable gaming control functions, unlock and wake up, right-side mouse click behaviour, line thickness control while drawing, image editing, and upper case and symbol selection.

Apple's 3D Touch pressure-sensitive touch technology present on the new iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus allows the iPhones to differentiate between a quick tap and a long press and triggers actions consequently.

Announcing the new ClearForce solution, Kevin Barber, Senior Vice President, General Manager, Smart Display Division, Synaptics said, "This exciting next step in human interface for smartphones will soon become the norm and highlights Synaptics' leadership in force. Early adopters of ClearForce include industry leading OEMs and LCMs seeking advanced technology that drives an enhanced and more productive user experienced."

Synaptics ClearForce force-sensing solution for smartphones can be expected to be used in multiple OEMs next year and is likely to be the next highlight feature of 2016 flagship Android smartphones.