Surface computing is a new type of computer that allows for natural interaction through touch and gestures rather than traditional mouse and keyboard inputs. It features a large horizontal multi-touch screen that can recognize objects placed on it and support multiple simultaneous users. The Microsoft Surface was the first commercial surface computing product, conceptualized in 2001 and released in 2007, featuring a multi-touch screen, object recognition capabilities, and ability for direct interaction without peripheral devices. While expensive and not portable, surface computing provides an intuitive interface for data manipulation and collaboration between users.