Microsoft's new OmniTouch makes almost everything touch sensitive.

Microsoft researchers have developed a new wearable multi-touch interactive technology, called OmniTouch that will basically allow users to use almost any surface in their vicinity as a touchscreen interface.

Microsoft Research has defined OmniTouch as a wearable depth-sensing and projection system that enables interactive multi-touch applications on everyday surfaces. So, you can use it on your hands or arms (or even legs!) on nearby surfaces like books, walls or tables. As reported by the Daily Mail, the device is basically a wearable camera with a projection system that senses depth, movement and accordingly computes the data to provide an output, like the Kinect motion sensor gadget for the Xbox 360.

The only limitation currently the device has is that it has to be worn on one’s shoulders; which limits its functionality and practicality to a great extent. However, Microsoft and a team from Carnegie Mellon University have stated that they intend to bring the size down to about the size of a matchbox or a wearable pendant. It’s a little early, but OmniTouch does have the potential to make the smartphone craze, a thing of the past. Those wanting a glimpse of OmniTouch can check out the video after the break.