The recently released Apple Magic Trackpad is similar to the trackpad found on the current MacBook and MacBook Pro laptop models. Eighty percent larger than its MacBook cousins it connects via Bluetooth and runs on two AA batteries. For $69 the Trackpad provides an alternative to the Magic Mouse that ships with Apple's desktop computers.
According to the Apple web site it supports a full set of gestures, giving you a whole new way to control and interact with what’s on your screen. The origin of this technology can be traced to Apple’s acquisition of a small company called Fingerworks in 2005.
Delaware roots
FingerWorks was a gesture recognition company founded by John Elias and Wayne Westerman of the University of Delaware, known for a line of multi-touch products including the iGesture Pad and the TouchStream keyboard.
John Elias and Wayne Westerman began Multitouch research in 1996. The project started as a doctoral thesis by Westerman, who was then a graduate student working with Elias, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Delaware.
While a search of the University of Delaware.shows both John Elias and Wayne Westerman listed as professors, recent articles show them now working for Apple.
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