When Nintendo introduced its Wii gaming console back in 2006, it changed the way people viewed (and used) video games. More recently, rivals Sony and Microsoft have seen the merits of motion control, with their respective PlayStation Move and Kinect for the Xbox 360.
While Microsoft has taken the Kinect to uses beyond gaming, they could get some competition from uWand. Developed by Philips as the next generation of remote control, this technology is based on direct pointing -- which is typical for AV remote control. However, uWand builds on that with 3D gesture control technology that is commonly known as "remote touch." This is embedded within the device to provide fluid and accurate direct pointing and 3D gesture control with the same level of intuitiveness as a multi-touch screen.
At this week's Consumer Electronics Show, uWand will show off its capabilities, which could serve as a controller for casual games and even integrated into chipsets for set-top boxes. The device also could be well matched with the Android mobile operating system and used as an Android app launcher, as it provides four degrees of freedom that combine the touchscreen experience with the need to actually "touch it."
The twist being touted by the developers of uWand is that because it is equipped with direct pointing along with 3D gesture control, users don't have to flail around as they might with a Wii controller. Here, the developers suggest it could be used in a "lean-back" fashion much like other remotes, while still offering actual motion control options.
Philips is pushing this as a complete firmware solution that incorporates two primary elements. This would include an infrared camera embedded in the remote control device, with a reference point near or on the TV that allows the camera to calculate its position.
So while the uWand might not replace traditional universal remotes, the developers are working to make it compatible with a range of devices. More importantly, because of the 3D gesture control, the uWand could be embedded in a remote control device that could have as few three buttons. A remote with fewer buttons; what's not to love?
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