Next MS Office, Windows to shift from keyboard to touchscreen?

Could a future version of Office, Microsoft's popular productivity suite, complete the shift from keyboard-based PCs to touchscreen-based smartphones, tablets, or similar touch devices?

A document of Microsoft Research hinted at this as it pushed for an electronic pen and digital ink as the input method for Office – as well as for its Windows operating system.

The document, referred to by tech site The Next Web, refers to the method as part of a "One Microsoft Ink strategy."

"Pen is a natural, powerful productivity tool... Writing things down actually helps us think and learn. We are so good using pens that they are not a distraction. Ink is personal and reflects who we are," the document said.

It added Pen can have a wide range of applications, including notetaking, annotation, problem-solving, collaboration, text, math, diagrams, and even doodles.

Besides, it said users prefer "convenience and precision" on tablets and phablets.

Microsoft said its digital pen should be simple, with the virtual pen and ink making a "credible alternative for pen and paper."

Under the system, the pen lays down ink while the pen button always selects – while an eraser deletes unwanted strokes or inputs.

Meanwhile, tech site The Next Web posted images of what could be the new pen-ink system in action on Microsoft Office apps.

"The interface looks like an early version, but gives us a good glimpse of where the company will take its productivity suite as it prepares to release it sometime in the next two years," it said. — Joel Locsin /LBG, GMA News