Method and system for computer application program task switching via a single hardware button

Abstract

Described is a computer-implemented system and method that detects and differentiates different actuation methods entered via a single hardware button, and then takes different task (application program window) switching actions based on the type of actuation method detected. Example button actuation methods include double actuation, press-and-hold, single actuation, and also latent double actuation (which is slower than double actuation, but fast enough to be differentiated from a single actuation). Example task switching actions include toggling focus between two programs, cycling focus between each active program, presenting a Start menu, and/or presenting a list of active programs to select. The single hardware button may be dedicated to task switching, or may be a multi-purpose button that performs task switching when entered into a task switching mode via one actuation method, and performs one or more other functions when not in the task switching mode.

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