The special pen writes in ink and emits a signal that is recorded on the CrossPad screen. It even has a simulated diamond on top as an embellishment. The CrossPad is attached to a cable, which in turn is attached to a computer. When you're done taking notes, they are transferred to the computer, and may be viewed as a graphic replica of your handwriting or converted into text. If the device should ever fail, you still come away with your notes on paper.
Nothing is lost.
This product is the ultimate merchandising gimmick. But once you own it, it may gather dust. After all that effort, I can see just two situations where I might use it. One is in the initial interview of a client. The other is during depositions.