intel nikiski transparent laptop

intel ‘nikiski’ laptop prototype, on exhibition at CES 2012 image courtesy of the verge

the ‘nikiski’ laptop prototype by intel, on display at CES 2012, features a transparent touchpad that doubles as a screen when the device is closed. originally previewed at computex 2011, the device is one of intel’s new ‘ultrabook’ concepts, the company’s specification for devices measuring under 20mm thick, 1.4-kg in weight, with a minimum of five hours’ battery life, and utilizing an ivy bridge CPU.

the laptop design centers on a clear touchpad that runs along the base of the keyboard (automatically distinguishing between use of the section as an input device versus a palmrest). when closed, the glass– visible through a cutaway panel– converts to a transparent touchscreen that utilizes a custom metro interface to display one to two rows of tiles, which users can click to access calendar, e-mail, facebook, or web browser functionality, or check on time, network, and power settings without opening the device. any function in use is automatically if the laptop is opened.

company representatives state that a partnership between intel and nuance, developers of natural speaking technology, will bring voice recognition technology to the device, which if produced would be aiming for a price point below 600 USD.

view of the transparent glass screen, serving as touchpad or palmrest when the laptop is open and touchscreen when closed image courtesy of the verge