Microsoft is currently working on what's called the 'surface computer'. Think of a coffee table - or look at one. This is a coffee table with a difference. The surface i.e. where you put your coffee is a computer screen.
I've just watched a demo. The feature I like is the wireless capability. I can take a photo, put the camera on the table, watch the photo appear on the coffee table screen via the seamless wireless connection. Take it a step further. Put your phone on the table. Drag the photo, with your finger to the phone and now it's on your phone. Question. What happens if I spill my coffee?
When it comes to personalising my online ID I wish I could manage everything from one place without the hassle of managing settings for my phone, instant messenger, my MacBook. I'd like my profile picture to be the same on all my devices. And when I change it, I'd like it to sync across everything. Perhaps this is getting closer to being able to do that.
Is Microsoft getting cool again? If Popfly is anything to go by Microsoft might have their finger on the pulse. As my good friend the 'Geek in Disguise' says, it's the Ozzie factor. That is Ray Ozzie. They're no match to Apple on the 'cool' factor (yet) but perhaps they've turned a corner. I genuinely hope so. They just need to learn how to tell the story. And if you need to know about how to do that, Seth is your man.