Microsoft Research has shown off some new technologies for bringing touch sensation (haptics) to glass screens.
Being able to feel a touch responsive screen can make typing more secure, and improve speed and accuracy.
Microsoft Research showed off 3 techniques – one would use piezeo-electrics to actually move the screen down when you press on it, simulating a physical key. This was shown on both a Lumia and a Surface Touch Cover.
Microsoft also showed off another technique, which would use rapid vibration of the screen and a trapped air layer to change the perceived texture of the screen. This was shown off on a Nokia Lumia 920.
Lastly they showed off an electrostatic system which would actually use electrical attraction between your finger and the screen to change your tactile response.
See the video.
