By Patrick Avenell

Fujifilm today demonstrated the new self-service photo printing booth that it is set to roll out in retail stores, such as partners Harvey Norman and JB Hi-Fi, which will utilise the new Samsung SUR40 with Microsoft PixelSense.

The SUR40 is like a coffee table tablet computer: it has a 40-inch screen that can process 50-plus multi-touch input simultaneously, making it a truly collaborative. At its unveiling today, the SUR40 was running Windows 7 Professional, though it is fully upgradable to Windows 8.

Click here to sign up for our FREE daily newsletter
Follow Current.com.au on Twitter

Daniel Paul, Fujifilm’s senior category manager, demonstrated the photo book program for Current.com.au. Unlike the decidedly old-world kiosks that are currently being used, the SUR40 is much more immersive, allowing users to select, edit and design albums as a group all with touch and gestures.

Images can be input through traditional methods, such as SD, MicroSD and Compact Flash cards, while there is also Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and NFC, subject to smartphone and in-store compatibilities.

Fujifilm revealed that they would not be charging a premium for designing albums on the SUR40, even though the experience should be much more enjoyable for the user.

Store roll-out is still planning, though Current.com.au understands that Harvey Norman’s Balgowlah superstore has been highlighted as a preferred testing ground.

The new Samsung SUR40 with Microsoft PixelSense.

A look at the Fujifilm interface on the SUR40.