What is the Origami Project?

Microsoft has launched a teaser website promoting the release of something called the Origami Project on March 2nd. There is ongoing speculation on some well read blogs about what exactly The Origami Project is. Engadget actually dug up pictures revealing it to be a personal device. My two cents: the “Touch Me” reference on the website is a pretty clear indication that it has something to do with touchscreen technology – I say its a touchscreen controlled media player. Regardless, Microsoft has gotten people’s attention.

I think its fantastic that Microsoft is using word of mouth marketing to generate buzz prior to the official launch. However, they could have done more. The Flash piece on the Oragami website isn’t all that interesting and the site doesn’t give you anything to do beyond subscribing to a RSS feed. They could have given away advance samples to the first 500 people who registered or at least added an email sign up. Something more. A smaller company without Microsoft’s brand would have to do a better job to get people’s attention. Who knows though, the site teases at a three week online campaign, so there may be more to come.

Update #1: Here is a video of the device – looks like a small tablet PC.  Video is also available here.

Update #2: Here’s a story detailing what it is in more detail.

Technorati Tags: Origami Microsoft PC Tablet