Microsoft Surface and others

Microsoft Surface just launched. It looks really cool. What's the idea? Here's what Microsoft says:
Surface turns an ordinary tabletop into a vibrant, dynamic surface that provides effortless interaction with all forms of digital content through natural gestures, touch and physical objects. Beginning at the end of this year, consumers will be able to interact with Surface in hotels, retail establishments, restaurants and public entertainment venues.
But it also reminds me of two things I saw before. Surface looks a lot like: BumpTop 3D Desktop (also see the Youtube video!). And it also reminds me of Jeff Han at TED talks, Unveiling the genius of multi-touch interface design. Is there a connection?

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