Multi-touch

In computing, multi-touch refers to a touch sensing surface's (trackpad or touchscreen) ability to recognize the presence of two or more points of contact with the surface. This plural-point awareness is often used to implement advanced functionality such as pinch to zoom or activating predefined programs.

Usage by Apple
Apple popularized the term with the introduction of the multi-touch LCD on the first iPhone in 2007. The device also contained accelerometers and gyroscopes that could detect the orientation of the screen and adjust the video display.

Apple Computer had quietly acquired FingerWorks in February 2005 to secure its technology and hired co-founders Wayne Westerman and John Elias to continue developing it as multi-touch for Apple's iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad product lines.