Key Takeaways
1. The E Ink trackpad offers significant power efficiency by only using energy when the display changes.
2. Users can customize the trackpad to show various widgets and applications, enhancing functionality.
3. The trackpad can integrate with AI tools for features like meeting transcripts and summaries.
4. Visibility may be limited in dim environments due to the trackpad’s low brightness and black-and-white display.
5. 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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