A few days ago, Google acquired a company named BumpTop. The company basically created a 3D user interface for a computer desktop - in fact, some TV stations use it to be cute. Here is a video demo of what it does:
Why would Google buy them? Well, maybe to be used for their Chrome OS project? Maybe to be used on Android mobile devices? Maybe to be used to acquire desktop and mobile user interface patents so they have more of a case against Apple's iPhone and multi-touch interfaces?
This is however an interesting development that may creep into the search realm down the road. Maybe 6 months, maybe 6 years but I can definitely see this creeping into search, some how.
Forum discussion at WebmasterWorld and DigitalPoint Forums.