Key Takeaways
- The E Ink trackpad offers significant power efficiency by only using energy when the display changes.
- Users can customize the trackpad to show various widgets and applications, enhancing functionality.
- The trackpad can integrate with AI tools for features like meeting transcripts and summaries.
- Visibility may be limited in dim environments due to the trackpad's low brightness and black-and-white display.
- The E Ink trackpad is still in development, and its availability in laptops is uncertain.
Laptops featuring touchscreens built into their trackpads aren't a fresh concept; a notable example is the Asus Zenbook 14, which comes with the Asus ScreenPad. The recently introduced ePaper trackpad from E Ink, utilizing the Intel Smart Base laptop framework, is claimed to have a significant benefit: much lower energy use.
Power Efficiency
E Ink screens only draw power when there’s a change in what’s displayed, allowing the trackpad’s appearance to be altered with just a tap without greatly affecting the laptop’s battery. This trackpad can show various widgets and applications, like weather updates or a note-taking interface. In combination with different AI tools, users can present a transcript or a summary of a current meeting or video call right on the E Ink screen. Quick access to commonly used apps and system features is possible through shortcuts on the trackpad.
Limitations in Display
Even though E Ink screens perform well in sunlight, the trackpad's limited brightness could affect visibility in dim environments. Also, this trackpad can only show content in black and white, and E Ink's slower reaction time typically prevents smooth video playback. It remains uncertain if or when this E Ink trackpad will appear in a laptop available for purchase, but E Ink mentions that their "ultra-thin" module can be easily fitted into laptops that are based on Intel technology.
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