Upcoming trends in touchscreen technology

Smart users of digital signage no longer want to just draw the attention of viewers; they want passersby to stop, read and interact with the digital sign. To make this possible, it is necessary to integrate touchscreen technology into an LED display.

In the world of digital signage, touchscreen technology is becoming gradually universal and more and more trends are emerging in the field. These trends are to do with technology of touchscreen as well as its application, such as – force sensing sensors and apps built particularly for touchscreens.

Here are some trends and tips drawn from an expert conversation with regard to the touchscreen space of digital signage:

Biggest trends at present in touchscreen technology:

At present, one major trend being seen is the use of applications in creating interactive touchscreen experiences. Whether it is for a warehouse application, for a productivity tool or as an in-store experience, the coding of most apps are done with the possibility of it being used on a touchscreen LED sign, consequently making the touchscreen adoption process much faster.

Another trend that is becoming more popular is that bigger screens create a bigger impact. In response to that, the cost of bigger LED screens are decreasing and more businesses are investing in 22 inch and larger touch displays for interactive applications.

In addition to the size, there is also a shifting trend in the orientation of digital displays. Initially, wide aspect screens were commonplace, but now retailers are switching to portrait oriented screens in an effort to provide customers an experience just like the smartphone – which they are already accustomed to. However, there will still be some cases where landscape is more appropriate for certain content, the trend is driving towards portrait orientation. In this context, when deciding which digital screen to go for and where to place it, keep in mind the viewing angle and orientation manageability. If this is done right, touchscreens will keep the correct orientation even through updates and reboots.

The innovation of touchscreen tools in the future

All businesses are looking for ways to provide their customers with unique interactive experiences. One such unique creation coming into the touchscreen digital signage market is the fact that all sizes of touchscreens are able to support projected capacitive (the ability to identify touch) – thereby providing consumers with a consistent touchscreen experience.

More touchscreen innovations include immunity to water and thicker glass being used so as to allow for a wider variation of environments that a touch screen can accept.

Most of the innovations are to do with the application of the touchscreen rather than the technology of the touchscreen. For example, advanced facility to support secure payment gateways in touchscreens, advanced self-service options to simplify the customer experience. Another touchscreen feature that has been introduced but still on the low is force sensing touch.

Advice for end users to maintain touchscreen accuracy

Modern day technology such as projected capacitive completely eliminates things like calibration. Investors should seek touchscreen solution partners where there is no need for calibration, which offer strong driver capabilities and unique touchscreen applications.