Synaptics bringing Apple's 3D Touch-like experience to Android smartphones

Synaptics has announced the development of its ClearForce force-sensing technology that will bring Apple's 3D Touch-like experience to Android smartphones. The new technology is expected to ship in smartphones in early 2016.

The San Jose, California-based company, which already designs multitouch supported touchpads for notebooks, says in a press release that it has been closely working with "leading global OEMs and LCMs" to offer its ClearForce technology on major flagship smartphones in 2016. The company has not revealed the names of OEMs but these could be the big Apple rivals Samsung and HTC.

ClearForce technology works across a range of fields, starting from variable speed scrolling and picture zoom and panning to unlock and wake-up and right-side mouse click behaviour. The company says it has used its proprietary force-sensing technology that was launched back in 1996 and has over 60 granted and pending patents worldwide to enable its proprietary force-sensing experience on Android smartphones.

"This exciting next step in human interface for smartphones will soon become the norm and highlights Synaptics' leadership in force," said Kevin Barber, senior vice president, general manager, Smart Display Division, Synaptics. "Early adopters of ClearForce include industry leading OEMs and LCMs seeking advanced technology that drives an enhanced and more productive user experienced."

Synaptics is not the only company that is working hard to take on Apple's 3D Touch - the technology that debuted on the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus. Last month, Chinese smartphone maker Huawei unveiled Mate S smartphone with its own force-sensing technology to deliver a 3D Touch-like experience. All this, however, does not mean that the iPhone 6s will no longer be unique in nature. Apple has iOS 9 with some proprietary features and software tweaks to enhance its 3D Touch experience.