• BillyJack
• Jun 19,2008
• In: Computers

What a Futuristic PC Might Look Like…..

The fourth Microsoft-sponsored Next-Gen PC Design Competition, encouraged entrants to dream up futuristic designs that not only feature eye-catching aesthetics, but also cater to people’s passions.

The Napkin PC:

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Industrial design student Avery Holleman won first place in the contest for this Napkin PC, “a multi-user, multi-interface, modular computer designed for creative professionals to collaborate and bring their greatest ideas to life.” The interface consists of any number of “Napkins” and a “Pen.” When powered by the Pen, the Napkin is a multi-touch input display that responds to human touch as well as the Pen, according to Holleman’s description.

In addition to his first place award, Holleman’s design also struck a chord with Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates, who handpicked The Napkin PC for the Chairman’s Award. Holleman received $20,000 in prize money for both accolades.

Backpacker’s Diary:

A PC concept targeting travel enthusiasts in the form of a traditional book. The different pages offer different functions, such as media recording or solar recharging.

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A PC concept targeting travel enthusiasts in the form of a traditional book. The different pages offer different functions, such as media recording or solar recharging.

SIAFU:

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PC providing “a digitally tactile interface that completely revolutionizes the way that blind people interact with a computer,” according to the entry. The surface of Siafu uses a material called “magneclay,” which can morph upward into any shape. “This means that Siafu can generate infinitely refreshable braille and then display it in a book format instead of just one line at a time like current braille displays,” according to the entry.

Coach Clipboard:

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Designed for the special needs of a fantasy sports fanatic. It gives the user constant access to sports stats, analysis, and highlights, and organizes activities for multiple fantasy leagues.

Smartchef:

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The device is split into two components; a stationary “smart” cutting board base and a portable tablet. The device is not “intended to reduce the owner’s time in the kitchen. Instead, it is designed to extend that time and make the pursuit of the home chef’s passion more enjoyable and fruitful.”