Get the Scoop on Microsoft's Secret Tablet: Courier

More details of Microsoft's Courier tablet have been leaked to gadget blog Gizmodo. Like previous videos and photos this concept animation was produced by Pioneer Studios, a division of Microsoft Entertainment and Devices.

Microsoft is said to be at a late prototype stage in product development where they've begun to show Courier concepts to outside agencies. This video shows an in-depth depiction of how one might use the dual-screen device to work on a collaborative project. The highlight of the video is Pagestream, the heart of the user interface.

The version of Pagestream shown here differs slightly from earlier prototypes and has a more familiar Microsoft operating system look. Two seven-inch glass screens respond to a hand-held stylus and fingertip gestures.

To move content between different applications the selection is moved to the center of the device and "tucked" under the spine. After pages are flipped to open the destination, the selection is then moved from the spine onto the target page.

Pagestream

Courier features a smart agenda, which reminds you of documents needed for various appointments on your calendar. Pages are turned just like a book by flicking your finger. After clipping images and text from the web browser into your journal everything can be shared with selected contacts in your address book.

Gather

Pagestream allows the user to search journal content by writing search terms into a field with the stylus. Web content and needed parts of documents from contacts can be copied to your journal. A built-in camera on the back of the Courier takes photographs. You can give feedback to colleagues by writing notes directly on documents they've sent.

Make

Photos and content added to the Infinite Journal from the web can be organized instantly with several different layout templates. Afterwards, the stylus can be used to draw or write notes directly on the page.

Share

Any content can be published immediately so that colleagues can view your project on the web or on their own Courier. The presentation can also be downloaded as a PDF or PowerPoint file. Notes and comments added by readers appear directly in your journal.

Customize

Courier allows the user to create several individual journals in a personal library. Each journal cover can be customized with the same paint and drawing tools available in other applications.