Touchscreens

A touchscreen is a special kind of screen that you can touch to control. You do not need a mouse or keyboard. Touchscreens are on phones, tablets, and some computers. They make devices easy and fun to use.

How They Work

Most touchscreens today use something called capacitive technology. Your finger has a tiny bit of electricity in it. When you touch the screen, it senses where your finger is. The device then knows what to do. Some screens can feel more than one finger at once so you can pinch and zoom.

Where We See Them

Touchscreens are everywhere now. We use them on phones and tablets every day. You can find them on cash registers at stores and at ATMs. Many cars now have touchscreens on the dashboard. Even some refrigerators and game machines have them.

Fun Facts

• The first touchscreen was invented in 1965 in England.
• The iPhone, released in 2007, made touchscreens popular everywhere.
• Some touchscreens can even sense a gloved hand.

Did You Know?

A touchscreen can work through a thin layer of plastic, which is why screen protectors do not stop the touch from working.