Here’s how Microsoft plans to KILL the humble computer mouse forever
MICROSOFT wants to kill off your computer mouse with a smart pen replacement.
The tech giant has nabbed a patent that enables the stylus for its Surface tablet (known simply as the Surface Pen) to act like a PC mouse's scroll wheel.
The modified Surface Pen packs a touch-sensitive retention clip, which you roll your finger along for zoom and scroll controls.
Inside the stylus is a conductive material that connects to a sensor, which measures the electrical changes that are produced when you touch it.
“By providing a touch-sensitive retention clip on the stylus, the stylus is able to provide scrolling, zooming, and/or other computing functionality in a manner that is similar to a scroll wheel of a mouse device,” the patent states.
“As such, a user may forgo using a mouse device in favor (sic) of the stylus when interacting with a computer.”
Another new addition to the Surface Pen detailed in the patent shows a way to switch the device out of power saving mode when it senses touch.
Microsoft isn't the only company developing what could be a groundbreaking new stylus.
Apple recently filed a patent for a 3D motion-sensing Pencil that lets you draw on any surface, and even in mid-air.
Meanwhile, Samsung patented a Galaxy Note smartphone that included an insane that acts as both a microphone and breathalyser.
It's important to note, though, that not all patents result in a product making it to the public.
But, they do give us a fascinating look at the inner workings of tech's biggest innovators.
The current Surface Pen costs £99.99 and comes in four colours (black, burgundy, blue, and platinum).
It includes an eraser button at the top that also takes a screenshot when pressed, and opens OneNote with a double click.
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online news team? Email us at [email protected] or call 0207 782 4368 . We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.