This document discusses surface computing and multi-touch display devices. Surface computing allows users to interact directly with a touch-sensitive screen instead of using a keyboard and mouse. Multi-touch devices allow multiple touches at once, serving as a substitute for traditional input devices. The document then describes various touchscreen technologies like resistive and capacitive, how they work, their advantages and disadvantages. It also covers implementation of gesture recognition software to interpret user inputs on touchscreens. Finally, potential applications of these technologies are mentioned.