<http://schema.org/articleBody>
"Apple could be working on a touchscreen iMac after a new patent application hinted at the firm&amp;#039;s future plans for its desktop computers.  The Patently Apple blog reports that the application was submitted by Apple to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, outlining the concept of a desktop computer featuring a touchscreen GUI (graphical user interface). Various manufacturers already offer touchscreen desktop computers, including Dell and Hewlett Packard, enabling users to perform a variety of action on screen with touch.  However, Apple&amp;#039;s patent application specifically refers to the use of &amp;#039;virtual controls&amp;#039; on the screen, including buttons and sliders that could allow users to more easily control audio and voice programmes without the need for a mouse, or stylus or separate tablet. The patent says: &amp;quot;The visual augmentation could include displaying an outline and/or fill region (eg a colour or pattern fill) around the knob element, displaying text labels for minimum and maximum range limit values and displaying a slider element with the knob element.&amp;quot; Patently Apple has dubbed the device &amp;quot;iMac Touch&amp;quot;, and said that it could particularly appeal to business users, such as advertising firms or design companies.  Also this week, Microsoft released a version of its Kinect system for Windows-based PCs, enabling users to control computer programmes and perform actions with their voice and movement. "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.digitalspy.com/tech/news/a363788/apple-patent-filing-suggests-touchscreen-imac-in-works/>