We covered the launch of Microsoft’s Surface touch-screen computer last year.

This week at the Consumer Electronics Show, the company is demonstrating some new application prototypes for the product.

In his keynote speech, Bill Gates gave a demo of the kinds of interactive retail applications ideal for Surface multi-touch systems. Microsoft claims it “provides a clear solution to common consumer pain points,” including :

* Being overwhelmed by choices
* Not having enough information
* Can’t make it yours
* Want to share it with friends

An email sent to Mary Jo Foley by the product team said, “The application showcases the four key attributes of a surface computer including; multi-touch, object recognition, direct interaction and multi-user”.

In his keynote, Gates said, “Your desk won’t just have the computer on the desk, but in the desk, so a meeting room table as you’re collaborating, and the living room if you want to briefing up and play games with something like a Surface, or organize your photos. It will just be there, and easy to manipulate, easy to change and have multiple people connect up.”