Apple Patents: Optical Touch Pad Mouse?

[MacRumors]

MacPlus.org (French) (http://www.macplus.org/magplus/article.php?id_article=5745) notes a relatively new Apple Patent (http://appft1.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PG01&s1=%22Apple+Computer%22.AS.&OS=AN/"Apple+Computer"&RS=AN/"Apple+Computer") (Filed Sept 2002):

A peripheral input device for controlling movements on a display screen, the peripheral input device comprising: a housing; and an optical touch pad carried by the housing, the optical touch pad being configured to translate finger motion into movements on the display screen.


Essentially, the new patent appears to be for a mouse with touchpad in place of the button. This appears to be an update to a previous concept (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2003/04/20030426024856.shtml) patented by Apple -- the rotary mouse.

[FatSweatyChimp]

Sounds weird.

[ImAlwaysRight]

Any pictures? Why do you need a touch pad on a mouse?

[bigsteve]

cool, so basically a small ipod scroll wheel, but on a mouse

[DPazdanISU]

I think it would be neat to have a mouse without any push buttons. Apple has done a great job on the iPods with sensor buttons that I think if they came out with a wireless mouse like that I would have to buy one. Even cooler would be one with sensor pad inbetween the right and left sensor pads on the mouse that would allow u to scroll simply by sliding your finger up or down it like on laptop pads... :)

[aftk2]

cool, so basically a small ipod scroll wheel, but on a mouse

Yes, which, incidentally, would be so much better for scrolling a document or web page. With today's scroll mice, you have to scroll the wheel, stop, move your finger back to the top of the wheel, and repeat. With something like the previous rotary mouse patent, you wouldn't have to do that. You could use your index or middle finger and scroll the page with one continuous motion.

[rueyeet]

Maybe a bit like the touch-sensitive scroll-wheel on that Kensington mouse that I can't think of the name of. Maybe it could scroll up, down, left, or right with the touch of a finger, like the iPod scroll wheel. Maybe it could be like the trackpad on the laptops, but with a hand rest.

With Apple, only two things are certain: there's no way to tell, but it's always fun to find out. :)

[virividox]

if it like an ipod scroll wheel ona mouse then it looks promising

[jrv3034]

If they do this right... it could be the evolution of the mouse as we know it. Think of the possibilities:

Gaming: use the mouse to control the direction of your movement, and the touchpad to move in that direction, or something like that!

Pro video/audio: built in shuttle jog in the mouse!

Web surfing: scroll up/down AND left/right with a flick of the finger!

The list goes on and on...

As long as it matches the aluminum G5, it's all good! ;)

[7on]

Finally, we find out the true reason for the iPod, R&D for mice :P

[jeffgarden]

but from looking at my friends laptops, which are all a few years old now, the part of the trackpad they use the most is discolored. i don't mind the laptop mouse but i use a usb one for my powerbook just to keep the trackpad looking new. and the one on the ipod you don't really use enough to wear out.

[DPazdanISU]

but from looking at my friends laptops, which are all a few years old now, the part of the trackpad they use the most is discolored. i don't mind the laptop mouse but i use a usb one for my powerbook just to keep the trackpad looking new. and the one on the ipod you don't really use enough to wear out.

I use my trackpad on my iBook constantly everday for the past 3 years and it isn't discolored one bit. Tell your friends that they don't have to press down so hard! ;)

[mvc]

This is just so Apple can put in a scroll wheel without appearing to be just like everyone else (say Microsoft) and simply using a Scroll Wheel™. And there is still no second button ;)

[mvc]

I use my trackpad on my iBook constantly everday for the past 3 years and it isn't discolored one bit. Tell your friends that they don't have to press down so hard! ;)

Or perhaps wash their hands more often :p

[Wonder Boy]

Yes, which, incidentally, would be so much better for scrolling a document or web page. With today's scroll mice, you have to scroll the wheel, stop, move your finger back to the top of the wheel, and repeat.

yeah, thats really killing me. if it wasnt for scrolling, i would exercise at all. :)

[nagromme]

* Apple patents stuff that doesn't always become a real product. Looks cool though. I want a BT version.

* Looks very Kensington-like in function--which I've heard is NOT that functional, and Apple couldn't patent that, so I'm clearly wrong :)

* The little touch pad could also be a second mouse button (tap, or click down like an iPod Mini).

* From the picture, it is clear that this mouse is targeted towards tree frogs.

[klaus]

scrolling along a touchpad..that sounds really weird to me.. i've simulated here, on my mouse, and it feels so akward.. the scroller with steps feels so much more natural to me, with an emphasis on "me"

[niter]

I think the concept is really revolutionary and I would love to see Apple develop it. My ideal design would be BT and the scroll on the mouse would have a depressible button underneath, as do traditional scroll mice. Once I figured out what the ctrl button does, I do not need a two buttoned mouse. However, I keep one around so that I can set the F9 expose function to it. Imagine if this type of scroll could do the same. I am understanding that this scroll is similar to the one in the iPod (which I love).

I am also thinking more of this rendition:

<img src=http://www.macplus.org/magplus/IMG/jpg/souris2.jpg>

[soosy]

Yes, didn't Kensington do this a year or so ago:
http://www.kensington.com/html/1216.html

[lostngone]

Did anyone look at the picture? In the top two diagrams the hand looks disfigured?

Doesn't Kensington already have a product that looks like that already?

[Wonder Boy]

Yes, didn't Kensington do this a year or so ago:
http://www.kensington.com/html/1216.html

i have that. i love it.

[MrMacMan]

Looks cool...


Certainly a new mouse is very needed.

Optical... scroll wheel... 2 BUTTONS OR MORE!


Please!!!

[hotmaj]

check this link out on the apple uk store
http://store.apple.com/Apple/WebObjects/ukstore.woa/90701/wo/r3wpStSK3Ng82fbO5FTHpxHD1ST/1.3.0.5.10.3.32.13.0

[greenstork]

Man, it seems like everyone is so interested in the technology and is not seeing the big picture here. Apple, more stubborn about their one button mouse than any other computer maker on the planet, is finally, after years and years of complaints, developing a new mouse!!!

This is the best rumor day in months. New PM's, iPods, Displays, and now mice.

:eek:
:D

[jsw]

Yes, didn't Kensington do this a year or so ago:
http://www.kensington.com/html/1216.html

I also have and love this mouse (well, the wireless version of it). If you press and hold the top or bottom of the middle area, it keeps on scrolling, thus eliminating even that small amount of exercise from my day.

[BOOMBA]

Just make a g------n 2 (or 3) button mouse already!

[jsw]

* From the picture, it is clear that this mouse is targeted towards tree frogs.

If you've read any of the "4G iPod" thread, people are claiming that Apple would need Area 51 technology to implement an iPod-sized video player.

Well, those patent pictures seem like proof enough to me. ;)

[Photorun]

Hmmm, the pieces are coming together... but WHERE'S THE SECOND BUTTON!!! :mad:

[Steven1621]

so apple can keep the one button mouse and have a scroll wheel. a step in the right direction for sure

[jsw]

I think it's almost unfortunate that Apple has filed for this patent, since Apple seems hell-bent against using multiple button mice (and I'm sorry, but ctrl-click isn't good enough). I'd rather see some 3rd party get it, just in the hope that we'd see a "real" mouse with it.

I'd love to see a 2-button-with-trackpad Apple mouse, but I think we just need to get used to buying 3rd party mice with each new Mac.

[nagromme]

Two things I get from the patent text:

* It scrolls sideways, not just up and down (cool)

* The scroller is NOT also a second button

* But the option of having additional buttons is mentioned (I'd like Apple to offer a pro mouse with a right button and at least one Exposé button... but I won't hold my breath)

[Don't panic]

*
* From the picture, it is clear that this mouse is targeted towards tree frogs.

LOL
i thought the same!

[ITR 81]

Maybe a bit like the touch-sensitive scroll-wheel on that Kensington mouse that I can't think of the name of. Maybe it could scroll up, down, left, or right with the touch of a finger, like the iPod scroll wheel. Maybe it could be like the trackpad on the laptops, but with a hand rest.

With Apple, only two things are certain: there's no way to tell, but it's always fun to find out. :)

Kensington Studio Mouse.
I've owned it for over 6 months now...and love it.

[Phatpat]

Step 1: Scroll Wheel

Step 2: 2nd Button

Steve will understand our mousing needs one day

[Borg3of5]

Yawn...yawn.

[xtbfx]

* From the picture, it is clear that this mouse is targeted towards tree frogs.

LOL, that's exactly what I was thinking.

[Stella]

This idea isn't new. I've seen mice like this before.. in fact there was a mouse like this in the company I work for...

[seyo]

I like the tactile feedback of buttons that click. I find my self squeezing touch sensitive buttons harder than I need to because they dont let you know in a tactile sense that they have been clicked.

[stingerman]

If Apple integrates the iPod scroll wheel onto the mouse, it would make sense as a thumb wheel, because that is how the wheel is used on the iPod. So imagine a one button mouse with a scroll wheel on the side, that will act as both a scroll wheel and and context button. If it is bluetooth as well, then it can be turned from one side to the other to make it left handed.

This makes sense as a whole new generation of users are being trained on the iPod thumb wheel. I'd have to read the patent language, but I'm sure it includes placing the touch pad anywhere on the mouse.

[j33pd0g]

I think it would be great to click and hold on an object - Finder Window for a basic example - and then use your finger to push/jog it around. This would help reduce carpal tunnel syndrome.

[jnasato]

You'd think that with all the money Apple spends on design aspects of their products, that they'd hire someone better to do the patent drawings! They should also patent that claw-like hand.

[portent]

I think it's almost unfortunate that Apple has filed for this patent, since Apple seems hell-bent against using multiple button mice (and I'm sorry, but ctrl-click isn't good enough). I'd rather see some 3rd party get it, just in the hope that we'd see a "real" mouse with it.

I'd love to see a 2-button-with-trackpad Apple mouse, but I think we just need to get used to buying 3rd party mice with each new Mac.

Well, we do know that Apple is redesigning its mouse. They could very well put a second button on it in the process. And although the item in the diagram doesn' show a second button, remember that it is a patent application, not a finished product. Just because it doesn't show a second button (or any button at all, for that matter, or any type of tracking sensor...) doesn't mean there won't be a second button.

I hope they make a second button version, but as a optional, configure-to-order feature. It's still easier for a newbie to learn the single button...especially a child with limited motor skills, or a user with a hand deformity/injury. And keeping the single-button standard encourages developers not to hide functionality exclusively in a right-click menu. Input devices are very personal tools; don't try to make one size fit all.

[Frisco]

Man, it seems like everyone is so interested in the technology and is not seeing the big picture here. Apple, more stubborn about their one button mouse than any other computer maker on the planet, is finally, after years and years of complaints, developing a new mouse!!!


Yeah a 2 button mouse is revolutionary for Apple!

[lostngone]

or a user with a hand deformity/injury.


Yes, like the poor person in the picture!

[Sol]

This Apple mouse sounds like a good idea, if only because it will innovate the way mice are designed for the next twenty years or so. The mouse has not changed much at all since the days of 8-bit computers. An iPod-like scroll wheel could be very useful for racing games ;)

[marke]

Right clicks are for PC losers who need to keep one hand free while using their computers. Multi button mice are ergonomic nightmares that don't come close to touching what you can do with the keyboard. Start using your Mac like a Mac and you will realize this too.

[gotohamish]

MacPlus.org (French) (http://www.macplus.org/magplus/article.php?id_article=5745) notes a relatively new Apple Patent (http://appft1.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PG01&s1=%22Apple+Computer%22.AS.&OS=AN/"Apple+Computer"&RS=AN/"Apple+Computer") (Filed Sept 2002):



Essentially, the new patent appears to be for a mouse with touchpad in place of the button. This appears to be an update to a previous concept (http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2003/04/20030426024856.shtml) patented by Apple -- the rotary mouse.

Think of the iPod mini's scroll wheel with it's button capabilities - it would be awesome. If is two-four button enabled - then all buttons could perform the single-click as we know it today on Apple mice - then, in the Mouse Pane, we could enable the other buttons if we so desire - thus a multi button mouse with beginner and pro capabilities.

[gotohamish]

Kensington Studio Mouse.
I've owned it for over 6 months now...and love it.

I had one and the scrolling is BAD. Jumpy and sticky. Nowhere near a logitech mouse unfortunately. Apple will deliver though, as ever.

[Tulse]

Multi button mice are ergonomic nightmares that don't come close to touching what you can do with the keyboard.

I suppose it depends on how you work on your computer. I do desktop publishing and graphic design all day, and my Logitech mouse has 8 buttons that I use constantly -- two for Expose (Show Desktop and All Windows), two for Page Up and Page Down, one for browser Back, and the right mouse for Command-Click (to, for example, open a Safari link in a new window). It also has a scrollwheel, which I use constantly. I find it is vastly more efficient to have these functions right under my fingertips, without having to move my hand to keyboard, and I could probably do with a few extra buttons as well.

I'm not a novice user, and I agree that a single-button mouse is much easier for a computer neophyte to learn. But for those with some experience, multi-button mice are a godsend -- the more buttons the better!

[mac15]

Something I've been wanting for a long while, for some strange reason its cooler when I can't heart the mouse click. Weird

[jsw]

I had one and the scrolling is BAD. Jumpy and sticky. Nowhere near a logitech mouse unfortunately. Apple will deliver though, as ever.

Sorry to hear that - my scrolling is fine. Do you have the latest MouseWorks installed?

[jsw]

I hope they make a second button version, but as a optional, configure-to-order feature. It's still easier for a newbie to learn the single button...especially a child with limited motor skills, or a user with a hand deformity/injury. And keeping the single-button standard encourages developers not to hide functionality exclusively in a right-click menu. Input devices are very personal tools; don't try to make one size fit all.

I agree that many users do fine with a single-button mouse, but I think that most non-disabled, non-child, non-novice users tend to prefer two-button mice with scrolling capabilities (there are those who prefer one button, and those who prefer n+1, where n is the maximum number available).

However, as far as two button mice are concerned, one thing I'd like to see - and maybe Apple could do this - is the ability to disable the second button and scroll wheel/pad, or (better) treat them all as the first button. That way, it degenerates to a single button mouse, so one mouse "size" could fit most user's needs.

[ZildjianKX]

Apple + Mouse = crap.

Already had my hopes up for the bluetooth mouse... not getting my hopes up again.

[Wonder Boy]

what about a mouse with a button on the left side and a scroll on the right. but the thing with the scroll on the right can be selected within the prefs to be used as a button, ala my ibook's track pad. (copyright wonder boy 2004)

[Sherman]

check this link out on the apple uk store
http://store.apple.com/Apple/WebObjects/ukstore.woa/90701/wo/r3wpStSK3Ng82fbO5FTHpxHD1ST/1.3.0.5.10.3.32.13.0

Ack, you used a session link, and not a permanent link, session timed out :rolleyes:

Use an actual link? I'd like to see this.

[Sabenth]

optical wirless scrolling mouse with touch pad = battry issues wooo:D

[Mr. G4]

If the scroll is like the one on the mini iPod, you got your 2 button and even 4 if they use it all

[aswitcher]

optical wirless scrolling mouse with touch pad = battry issues wooo:D

Still, rechargable bluetooth would be cool

[SeaFox]

Man, it seems like everyone is so interested in the technology and is not seeing the big picture here. Apple, more stubborn about their one button mouse than any other computer maker on the planet, is finally, after years and years of complaints, developing a new mouse!!!

This is the best rumor day in months. New PM's, iPods, Displays, and now mice.

:eek:
:D


You're right nobody is seeing the big pictrure here, but it isn't a great wheel imitator on the mouse. The picture seems to have no similarity to the "rotary scroll wheel pad" idea, in fact.

But if Apple where to make the entire top portion (button) of the mouse a touch pad think what you could do....

* Configure it to be one big button
* Have it behave as TWO buttons (left and right sides invoke separate).
* Have two buttons with a scroll pad area in between (up/down in doc).
* Have the pad act as a mini track pad. Quick movements accross the increasingly large screens people have with the touch pad, then finer control with the mouse itself, tap pad to click.

All this can be done with the same mouse and user configurable with in the Mouse Prefs. One button simple mode for newbies like Steve seems to like, more advanced users can change to more complicated configurations suited to the uses of their Macs. :D

[briankonar]

Yeah a 2 button mouse is revolutionary for Apple!
while everyone is looking for a TWO button mouse...i need a MINIMUM of three. my logitech has four, all programmed)...but it's ugly as hell. cmon apple this single button thing is pathetic (and so is the speed of their IR sensors).

[Mr Jobs]

hey does this mean i can sue Apple and i own the patent. :-)

thread posted 05-06-2002.

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=4589

[T'hain Esh Kelch]

Sounds more like a track pad to me... Not a mouse invention!

[rdowns]

Right clicks are for PC losers who need to keep one hand free while using their computers. Multi button mice are ergonomic nightmares that don't come close to touching what you can do with the keyboard. Start using your Mac like a Mac and you will realize this too.

Posts like this are for losers. Right clicking is far more efficient for many tasks than reaching for the keyboard, mousing up to a menu or over to scroll bar. Best of all, you have a choice of how you'd like to do it.

95% of the population uses Windows and 2 button mice. For Apple to still hold that a one button mouse is best is ridiculous. Just another in the long list of things that causes people not to consider Macs.

[s10]

a mouse with a g-spot, fantastic!

[takao]

a multi button "pro mouse" would shut off a lot of people complaining about "macs have only one mouse button"

i'm using a microsoft intellimouse explorer (version.1: the old with big buttons) best mouse i ever used. microsoft makes a not so good OS but their mice are excelent
for my next computer (which will be a mac isntead of a PC) i will plug in this mouse and the first thing i will do is assign the wheelclick and the second thumb button to expose (nr.1 thumb button is browser back i can't live without that)

[booshtukka]

This patent was filed in Sept 2002. They also filed another patent about a wheel that worked like a jog dial on a mouse. Nothing came of that, so I don't see why anything would come of this! Sept 2002 is ages ago.

[fixyourthinking]

look like they are from a sloth? Is this mouse going to relate to animal research and the mammals.org domain??

[fixyourthinking]

a multi button "pro mouse" would shut off a lot of people complaining about "macs have only one mouse button"

i'm using a microsoft intellimouse explorer (version.1: the old with big buttons) best mouse i ever used. microsoft makes a not so good OS but their mice are excelent
for my next computer (which will be a mac isntead of a PC) i will plug in this mouse and the first thing i will do is assign the wheelclick and the second thumb button to expose (nr.1 thumb button is browser back i can't live without that)

Have you seen this:

http://www.macmice.com

[bar italia]

And the winner of the worse signature on this thread award is:

Sabenth for

"We are all looking for the Key Maker !!! not just neo and crew"

[whawho]

Posts like this are for losers. Right clicking is far more efficient for many tasks than reaching for the keyboard, mousing up to a menu or over to scroll bar. Best of all, you have a choice of how you'd like to do it.

95% of the population uses Windows and 2 button mice. For Apple to still hold that a one button mouse is best is ridiculous. Just another in the long list of things that causes people not to consider Macs.

I agree with this... However, I really don't think apple will ever come out with a two button mouse... ever.. every time one of these threads come out you hear the same arguments over and over...I got my hopes up with the last wireless mouse rumors about it maybe being multi-button... and was very dissappointed...

To me I use multi-button mice from 3rd party providers and love them... Some use Apple mice and love them... Just how it is... The only thing I wish Apple would do is not force ME (a multi-button user) to buy their mice which I never use... I wish they would offer a BTO option when you buy their systems to get a 3rd party multi-button mouse INSTEAD of theirs..

[marke]

I suppose it depends on how you work on your computer...

Absolutely. I use both hands. All of the functions you have on your mouse are built right into the keyboard, which is always right under every single fingertip of my left hand.

[marke]

...Right clicking is far more efficient for many tasks than reaching for the keyboard, mousing up to a menu or over to scroll bar. Best of all, you have a choice of how you'd like to do it...

Use both hands and there is no reaching. Suddenly your keyboard and it's trillions of shortcuts are available as if they were a 100+ button mouse. And they are set up exactly the same no matter whose Mac you happen to be using.

[marke]

...The only thing I wish Apple would do is not force ME (a multi-button user) to buy their mice which I never use...

This is the correct answer! I also do not wish to be forced to buy a multi-button mouse, or even a mouse with any buttons at all.

It's not the number of buttons that is the issue, it's the way it is clicked. I do not click with my index finger, I click with all of them. I cramp up when I have to use a traditional mouse. Programming all the buttons to do the same thing doesn't work, because the buttons still click the same way. Large clickable area = 0 cramps. Cramps = bad.

[takao]

Use both hands and there is no reaching. Suddenly your keyboard and it's trillions of shortcuts are available as if they were a 100+ button mouse. And they are set up exactly the same no matter whose Mac you happen to be using.

give the mouse another button and you can make twice as many shortcuts ;) SNCR
i use shortcuts too.. but i see no use in wasting my other fingers + thumb on my other hand just for clicking only one button

[speakster]

Right clicks are for PC losers who need to keep one hand free while using their computers. Multi button mice are ergonomic nightmares that don't come close to touching what you can do with the keyboard. Start using your Mac like a Mac and you will realize this too.

Just curious,

Do you tie your shoes with the bunny ears or do you go round the loop?

I would hate to be doing it the wrong way.

:(

[mrsebastian]

please keep your flame throwers at stun for my humble opinion. i am a fan of the multi-button mouse yes, but what just struck me is that it may be beneficial for apple to offer a multi-button mouse for an interesting reason. for many who consider switching from peecee to mac, i have heard the complaint that macs come with a one button mouse and they are used to a multi-button mouse (also a scroll wheel). though it may be minor, since you can of course purchase one aftermarket, but many people expect to get just that with their $1000 plus purchase of a new machine. just something for apple to consider... and further more, when you consider how long computers have been around now and everyone including my 4 year old nephew knows how to use a multi-button mouse with a scroll wheel, isn't it about time "hell froze over"?... the flame throwing may commence ;)

[mrsebastian]

holy [bleep]!!!! i just figured out how apple can easily make everyone happy including those [cough] people who still like the one-button kiddie mouse... ok, ok, just kidding it's really a good idea though...

you take apple's current pro bluetooth mouse (which of course is a beautiful design) and make it pressure sensitive to clicking on the left or right side of the mouse (two buttons) and throw in the scroll wheel, like the concept posted earlier in the thread. here's the kicker, apple simply needs to add a "mouse functionality" preference pane, that would allow the mouse to be used as one button (whichever button/side you click it acts as one button), or could be adjusted for two buttons, etc. to take it step further, the default ould be set for one-button and when you first boot you machine out of the box or newly install the system, part of the set up process would be mouse functionality. even if you drop the scroll wheel to keep it closer to the mouse's current design, atleast incorporate the second button concept and give us an option... see, that's not such a bad idea [running from flame throwers].

[Snowy_River]

scrolling along a touchpad..that sounds really weird to me.. i've simulated here, on my mouse, and it feels so akward.. the scroller with steps feels so much more natural to me, with an emphasis on "me"

I use the left and bottom edges of my PowerBook track pad to scroll all the time. It's really great, and isn't at all unintuitive or awkward...

[Snowy_River]

This idea isn't new. I've seen mice like this before.. in fact there was a mouse like this in the company I work for...

Well, the US Patent and Trademark office would tend to disagree with you. There's something about this that is definitely new. Don't necessarily trust just the images. If you want to know what's new, read the claims on the patent...

[Snowy_River]

Right clicks are for PC losers who need to keep one hand free while using their computers. Multi button mice are ergonomic nightmares that don't come close to touching what you can do with the keyboard. Start using your Mac like a Mac and you will realize this too.

For the record, I've been a Mac user for more than seventeen years. I only use PCs when I have to. However, when I'm doing serious productivity work, I prefer to use a multi-button trackball (typically, I prefer a three or four button trackball). There are some mice or trackballs that are not 'ergonomic nightmares'.

However, when I'm on the road with my PowerBook, I quite readily use cntrl-click, cmd-click, opt-click, etc.

Posts like this are for losers. Right clicking is far more efficient for many tasks than reaching for the keyboard, mousing up to a menu or over to scroll bar. Best of all, you have a choice of how you'd like to do it.

95% of the population uses Windows and 2 button mice. For Apple to still hold that a one button mouse is best is ridiculous. Just another in the long list of things that causes people not to consider Macs.

A couple of comments...

I've helped many, many people that hate multi-button mice (both Mac and Windows users). I've been somewhat surprised by the number of people who don't understand how to use the right mouse button properly. These are the people that the single button mouse on the Mac is aimed at, that and the user interface that doesn't require a right mouse button. In the Mac OS everything that you can do with the contextual menu can be done by other means.

I think that the persistence of the single button mouse serves some purposes, but a multi-button mouse as an option, especially for the Power Macs, would be a very good move. Either that, or allow the substituting of a third party mouse for the Apple mouse at the time of order. (Apple's contention that for people who want multi-button mice there are plenty of choices being what it is...)

[Mainyehc]

Guess what, guys... I've already invented that mouse!
Just check this Mac-forums thread:

http://www.mac-forums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4238

I didn't register THAT patent, though, and sent my drawings to Apple anyway... Was it a stupid thing to do, letting them get advantage of my idea? If they DO come up with a mouse like that, I don't regret it, and I'm surely buying one!!! :D
Btw, what do you think of my concept of mouse?

[rdowns]

Use both hands and there is no reaching. Suddenly your keyboard and it's trillions of shortcuts are available as if they were a 100+ button mouse. And they are set up exactly the same no matter whose Mac you happen to be using.

There are many times I use the KB and its shortcuts. When I read this forum, I'm usually in my desk chair reclining back with feet up and the TV on. Using a KB sucks, a multi button mouse and scrool wheel are the way to go.

[Snowy_River]

Guess what, guys... I've already invented that mouse!
Just check this Mac-forums thread:

http://www.mac-forums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4238

I didn't register THAT patent, though, and sent my drawings to Apple anyway... Was it a stupid thing to do, letting them get advantage of my idea? If they DO come up with a mouse like that, I don't regret it, and I'm surely buying one!!! :D
Btw, what do you think of my concept of mouse?

Well, if what they patented is really what you sent them, then their patent is invalid, as they didn't invent it. So, I'd guess that there is something specific in the claims on their patent that is new and different than what you sent them (or that you came up with it after they applied for the patent).

[rdowns]

I think that the persistence of the single button mouse serves some purposes, but a multi-button mouse as an option, especially for the Power Macs, would be a very good move. Either that, or allow the substituting of a third party mouse for the Apple mouse at the time of order. (Apple's contention that for people who want multi-button mice there are plenty of choices being what it is...)

It absoutely serves a purpose but not on a $2,000+ iMac or PM. For Apple to charge their high prices and sell you a 1980's technology mouse is a slap in the face. I say include the one button on the eMac and go back to how they used to sell KBs separately, only mice too. When I was a reseller, many opted for the $75 basic keyboard and not the $133 Extended KB. I see no reason they can't do that today with mice and KBs.

There are so many criticisms of Apple (real and imagined). It is so frustrating for them not to address the ones that can be solved overnight.

[Mr Jobs]

Guess what, guys... I've already invented that mouse!
Just check this Mac-forums thread:

http://www.mac-forums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4238

I didn't register THAT patent, though, and sent my drawings to Apple anyway... Was it a stupid thing to do, letting them get advantage of my idea? If they DO come up with a mouse like that, I don't regret it, and I'm surely buying one!!! :D
Btw, what do you think of my concept of mouse?

sorry mate beat ya to it.

my thread was posted 05-06-2002.

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=4589

[Mainyehc]

sorry mate beat ya to it.

my thread was posted 05-06-2002.

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=4589

There IS something specific in my concept... Clicking the mouse while touching the touchpad can result in Ctrl-clicking, if the user configures that option... Apple could then provide us with a functionality similar to the right clicking, without putting any extra buttons in their gorgeous mouse...
Besides, your concept clearly shows TWO buttons... I'm not suggesting two buttons, just one OR two configurable scrollpads! (no hard feelings) :p

[maxterpiece]

I think the idea of making the whole front end of a mouse (the part where the buttons usually are) into a touchpad is very very interesting. For design people, the touchpad could track much slower than actually moving to mouse so you could etch in details carefully. For experienced users who want 2 or 3 buttons, different areas of the trackpad could be configured to left click, right click or scroll. For people who want to keep it simple, the whole tracking area can be one button. After playing with an ipod mini and feeling how comfortably the touchwheel can 'click', I believe this idea is totally viable.

[aswitcher]

I think this could prove to be a leap over two button mouse and scroll wheels, showing once again that Apple can revolutionise...

[sjk]

I like the tactile feedback of buttons that click.Me, too, tho' I wish the scroll wheel on my Logitech optical mouse were less tactile.

[Little Endian]

I have two Kensington Studio mice wired version w/ the touchpad scroll wheel, and absolutely love it. Some people say they don't like it but it takes time getting used too. Kensington has also improved the Studio mouse touch scroll pad in recent shipping units and they are smoother and more responsive. The first one I bought over a year ago was good but the new one I bought a month ago for Home use is even better, they both look identical though the only diff is the Model # and the cord looks different.

It looks Like Kensington beat Apple with this idea. I would love to see an apple version with a scroll wheel and three buttons though anyhow my Kensington Studio mice will serve me well for now. The only complaint I have about the Kensington studio mouse is that the white rubberized sides get dirty very fast.

[macnews]

holy [bleep]!!!! i just figured out how apple can easily make everyone happy including those [cough] people who still like the one-button kiddie mouse... ok, ok, just kidding it's really a good idea though...

you take apple's current pro bluetooth mouse (which of course is a beautiful design) and make it pressure sensitive to clicking on the left or right side of the mouse (two buttons) and throw in the scroll wheel, like the concept posted earlier in the thread. here's the kicker, apple simply needs to add a "mouse functionality" preference pane, that would allow the mouse to be used as one button (whichever button/side you click it acts as one button), or could be adjusted for two buttons, etc. to take it step further, the default ould be set for one-button and when you first boot you machine out of the box or newly install the system, part of the set up process would be mouse functionality. even if you drop the scroll wheel to keep it closer to the mouse's current design, atleast incorporate the second button concept and give us an option... see, that's not such a bad idea [running from flame throwers].

I'm throwing my hat in the ring for this idea. I think this would not only rate high on the "cool" factor list, it would be very functional and remove this long running debate! Just being able to use a "right side" click to engage expose` would be cool. Make it bluetooth w/rechargable batteries.

[macnews]

I use the left and bottom edges of my PowerBook track pad to scroll all the time. It's really great, and isn't at all unintuitive or awkward...


How do you do this? I do not see that option anywhere in the settings. Am I missing something or is there some third party software you need to install?

[jsw]

I think this could prove to be a leap over two button mouse and scroll wheels, showing once again that Apple can revolutionise...

True...after just, oh, 20 years, they've come up with something amazing in mouse technology. ;)

[Snowy_River]

How do you do this? I do not see that option anywhere in the settings. Am I missing something or is there some third party software you need to install?

The hardware fully supports this, but Apple's driver for their track pads don't currently. So, there's an alternate driver called SideTrack that you can download and install. Here's the link (http://www.ragingmenace.com/software/sidetrack/).

[aswitcher]

True...after just, oh, 20 years, they've come up with something amazing in mouse technology. ;)

No, it took Steve Jobs the last 5-6 years to get over his ego and release a new mouse interface...now that is a big deal ;) :p

[cschilderink]

Im guessing this while replace the click button but also add a button similar to the scroll wheel on many PC mice.

[aswitcher]

Im guessing this while replace the click button but also add a button similar to the scroll wheel on many PC mice.

More a little touch pad ontop of the mouse, which I guess will be programmable to either move the screen around, move the mouse pointer around etc

[jimthorn]

Think of the iPod mini's scroll wheel with it's button capabilities - it would be awesome. If is two-four button enabled - then all buttons could perform the single-click as we know it today on Apple mice - then, in the Mouse Pane, we could enable the other buttons if we so desire - thus a multi button mouse with beginner and pro capabilities.

This is exactly what I was thinking... and it's a brilliant solution for Apple.

(1) Stylish Apple uniqueness that makes everyone want to see it and try it (and a year down the line, other companies will copy it)

(2) Configurable multiple buttons that make intuitive sense (for example, you could set up your mouse with the "up" and "down" clickwheel buttons as scroll up and down, while the left and right are standard mouse buttons, leaving the wheel itself for other functions)

(3) The now-classic iPod scroll wheel, which as others in this thread have pointed out, would make an excellent shuttle control as well

(4) It's not a "two button mouse," because Steve hates those things

(5) If it had the iPod-style center button, that could the main mouse button leaving all the other clickwheel functions for advanced users to configure (for beginners, you could even have the clickwheel not active by default in the OS)

(6) It would let the mouse (an icon of sorts for the Mac, really, considering that it wasn't an integral part of the PC would until Windows) be as innovative a part of the Mac experience as everything else

[alamar]

so apple can keep the one button mouse and have a scroll wheel. a step in the right direction for sure

IMHO, without the option to define an area for (atleast) a second button its a step backwards...sideways at best.

[beetle]

The URL to the Patent and Trade Office returns 45 hits. Here’s a link (http://appft1.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PG01&p=1&u=/netahtml/PTO/srchnum.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1="20040046741".PGNR.&OS=DN/20040046741&RS=DN/20040046741) to just the right one.

[itsa]

If it's a two button mouse I like it...

Come on apple , how hard can it be to add arother button and a scroll?? :p

[wdlove]

The URL to the Patent and Trade Office returns 45 hits. Here’s a link (http://appft1.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PG01&p=1&u=/netahtml/PTO/srchnum.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1="20040046741".PGNR.&OS=DN/20040046741&RS=DN/20040046741) to just the right one.

Thank you for the link beetle. Maybe we will see the fruits of this invention at WWDC.

[Kid Red]

I think the concept is really revolutionary and I would love to see Apple develop it. My ideal design would be BT and the scroll on the mouse would have a depressible button underneath, as do traditional scroll mice. Once I figured out what the ctrl button does, I do not need a two buttoned mouse. However, I keep one around so that I can set the F9 expose function to it. Imagine if this type of scroll could do the same. I am understanding that this scroll is similar to the one in the iPod (which I love).

I am also thinking more of this rendition:

<img src=http://www.macplus.org/magplus/IMG/jpg/souris2.jpg>

As mentioned, kenningston already made this, not sure how Apple plans to get a patent for it unless Kenningston slept on it.

I have the mouse and I'm not happy with the permanent smudge marks it gets.