The Sensel Morph is a new sensitive touchpad whose input capabilities are very similar to Apple's Force Touch tech, yet contains more sensors. Due to factors such as its pressure sensitivity and compatibility with PCs, Macs, and iPads, it could become a top-tier tablet input device on the market.
The startup company Sensel launched the Kickstarter campaign for its Morph touchpad on August 25, Tuesday. It has already reached its crowdfunding goal.
In some ways the Sensel Morph resembles Apple's Force Touch tech. However, it differs in the number of sensors located in the device.
Sensel has reported that it contains 20,000 sensor components. That makes the touchpad super pressure-sensitive.
It is so sensitive that a paintbrush could be used to paint digitally on the touchscreen, according to Engadget. The Morph touchpad can also detect pressures ranging from light taps to heavy presses.
It can connect to the Web via a USB or Bluetooth. That makes it compatible with desktops and mobile gadgets.
Morph's applications not only include digital art, but also accessories called "magnetic cover overlays." They can convert it into other input tools including analog keyboards and game controllers, according to iDigitalTimes.
An Application Program Interface (API) for the new touchpad will be available for developers who want to build customized inputs for their smartphone apps. In addition, a companion app will be available for users who are not programmers.
The Sensel Morph touchpad's early-bird price was $199, but now costs $249. It will be shipped out next year and bundled with a few overlays.