Microsoft is reported to have acquired Israeli company N-trig, which produces digital pens and chips for touch screens, for approximately $200 million.
Microsoft already owns 6.1% of the company and last year signed a deal to integrate N-trig’s digital pen in its Surface Pro 3 tablets. The company employs 190 staff which it said will be integrated into Microsoft’s business in Israel as part of a new research and development centre. However, it has since been reported that around 40 staff, in various locations around the world, are to lose their jobs.
N-trig’s technology is already being used in smartphones, tablets and ultrabooks by Sony, Fujitsu, HP and Lenovo.
Analyst Comments
The finger is a poor stylus and for professional applications and intensive use, a stylus option is essential. Samsung has been pushing this in its Note products. (BR)
