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Linux Notebooks Get Multi-Touch Support Through Synaptics

Multi-touch has already been enabled for Windows 7 netbooks for devices with a Synaptics touchpad, but now Linux users will be able to get their hands, or fingers, on the same functionality.

The touchpad maker has extended its Gesture Suite software to Linux, along with increased multi-touch options.

Linux faithfuls will now be able to pinch-to-zoom, twist-rotate, pivot-rotate, two-finer scroll, three-finger press, momentum and the gymnastically-named chiralscrolling.

Synaptics said it would support several popular Linux distributors including Fedora, Millos Linpus, Red Flag, Ubuntu, and Xandros.

linux multi touch support netbook

Unfortunately for Linux developers, you won't be able to simply download the Gesture Suite and install it yourself onto your notebook.

The software is currently only available for free to manufacturers that purchase Synaptic touchpads for their devices.

While this will provide access to multi-touch gesture capabilities straight out of the box, most Linux aficionados prefer to install software themselves.

“The Synaptics Gesture Suite for Linux enables our OEMs to leverage a broad range of gesture capabilities across Linux operating systems,” said Ted Theocheung, head of Synaptics PC and digital home products and ecosystem.

He said the software would provide, "extensibility into new Linux flavors such as Google Chrome OS and additional support for touch-enabled remote control devices."

Are you a Linux-lover excited about flinging your fingers? Leave us a comment and let us know.

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An absolute tech junky, I graduated from the University of Manchester with a degree in Computing and now live on the outskirts of Leeds working with you guessed it, Computers. I love all things gadgety but really dislike wires. For those of you who haven’t worked it out the name of the site is a combination of my nickname (Gaj) and the pronunciation ‘Gadget’.
UK Gadget and Tech News, Reviews and Shopping
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