A Microsoft research project called Sidesight will eventually allow user input to mobile devices without actually touching the device. The use of proximity sensors around the perimeter of the device will allow the user to use multi-touch gestures to manipulate devices. I really think this is the future. This is multi-touch meets the computer from Minority Report.

A Microsoft market research survey suggests that the company might be looking into selling Surface devices aimed at consumers. The device, code named "Oahu," would be a consumer version of the advanced multi-touch computer that until now has only been used by companies like AT&T for in-store promotions. It looks like Microsoft is looking to start furnishing your house.

"Oahu can come as a freestanding table, placed into a piece of furniture, or built into a countertop. The type of Oahu devices we are asking about today are not portable but if they are furniture or tables, they can be placed anywhere in your home."

The survey suggests a $1,499 price tag for Oahu.

Code Name: Milan is the top secret name for the table top computer called Microsoft Surface. It looks like a glass coffee table, but its actually a computer with an interactive surface in disguise.

The most exciting thing about this computer, other than its top secret status, is its ability to connect to and manipulate the data on wireless devices such as cameras and cell phones. The fact that this technology will lead to other types of surface computing is pretty darn exciting too.

The Microsoft Surface will make its debut at the end of 2007 and will cost $5,000 to $10,000.