Abstract: A new user interface, a distance user interface, in a computer system for operating a computer from a television-viewing distance is provided. A centralized display is provided enabling a user to access streaming video and sound as well as music files, video files, and picture files from a single screen. Collaborative sharing of media content is provided by enabling a computer's operations and feedback to be collectively observed from a distance.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically locking user interface input elements to avoid negative impact of inadvertently pressing a user input element. The method receives an internally generated locking signal; sets a locked flag to indicate the user input elements are locked. Input signals occurring while the input elements are locked are ignored. In accordance with other aspects, the method further relates to determining whether input signals relate to an unlock signal. The internally generated locking signal is generated following a predetermined time interval that is managed by an internal timer and may be related to an automatic shutoff/sleep mode time interval. Alternatively, a calendar-type application program may initiate the internally generated locking signal in response to a predetermined event.

Abstract: A method and system for receiving user input data into a computer system having a graphical windowing environment. A touch-sensitive display screen for displaying images and detecting user activity is provided. A management component connects to the graphical windowing environment to create an input panel window for display on the screen. An input method which may be a COM object is selected from multiple input methods available, and installed such that the input method can call functions of the management component. Each input method includes a corresponding input panel, such as a keyboard, which it draws in the input panel window. When the user taps the screen at the input panel, the input method calls a function of the management component to pass corresponding input information appropriate information such as a keystroke or character to the management component.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically locking user interface input elements to avoid negative impact of inadvertently pressing a user input element. The method receives an internally generated locking signal; sets a locked flag to indicate the user input elements are locked. Input signals occurring while the input elements are locked are ignored. In accordance with other aspects, the method further relates to determining whether input signals relate to an unlock signal. The internally generated locking signal is generated following a predetermined time interval that is managed by an internal timer and may be related to an automatic shutoff/sleep mode time interval. Alternatively, a calendar-type application program may initiate the internally generated locking signal in response to a predetermined event.