X-Desk interactive desktop launches in the UK

The X-Desk uses projectors to transform any surface into an interactive display

In a bid to take on Microsoft's Surface table-top PC, a joint venture between Impressx, Engage and Epson has unveiled a multi-touch screen interactive desktop at the UK's Gadget Show Live.

The X-Desk uses projectors to transform any surface into an interactive display. The firms said in a statement that the technology "blurs the lines between the physical and virtual worlds, allowing people to physically interact with digital content such as photos, videos, documents, maps and information".

The system lets users access data and media on mobile phones, MP3 players and other devices simply by placing the item on the X-Desk's surface, and will let them move items, documents and folders around the screen with their fingers.

The 52in interactive display comprises a rear-projection screen, camera, PC pre-installed with Impressx Xcite software, optical sensors that register and interpret touches on the surface, and an Epson 3LCD projector.

"We have developed the X-Desk to give businesses the opportunity to create truly compelling customer experiences," said Daniel Barthels, director at Impressx.

"We are proud to be the first to bring this to the commercial market in the UK. We want to help create effective, interactive relationships between brands and customers."

However, Microsoft's Surface was officially launched in the UK in March and is available to purchase now at a list price of £8,500 by downloading an order form from the web site.

Impressx, Engage and Epson are pitching the device at a range of customers, citing uses in the home as a fun, interactive display, but also highlighting a number of business benefits. The X-Desk offers point-of-sale opportunities in restaurants and shops, for example, and could function as a navigation device or interactive menu.

Caroline Kay, sales and marketing manager at Engage, claimed that, unlike Microsoft's Surface, which is set to ship with a number of pre-defined applications later this year, the X-Desk can be tailored to meet any end-user need.

"We do not have any specific applications," she said. "We ask what customers want and build it for them."

The X-Desk offers gesture recognition for drawing or writing on the screen, object recognition for accessing devices including mobile phones, and full Bluetooth connectivity.