Changing channel with a wave of the hand possible with new technology

By TOM WHITE
Published on 09/10/2012 02:13

TELEVISION remotes and games controllers might soon be a thing of the past, replaced by new technology that can be worn like a wristwatch.

Researchers at Newcastle University and Microsoft Research Cambridge have developed a sensor – worn on the wrist – that tracks 3D movement and allows the user to remotely control any electronic device with just a wave of the hand.

Mapping finger movement and orientation, the device gives the user remote control anywhere, anytime. David Kim, a PhD student at Newcastle University, said: “The Digits sensor doesn’t rely on any external infrastructure, so it is completely mobile.

“This means users are not bound to a fixed space. They can interact while moving from room to room or even running down the street. What Digits does is finally take 3D interaction outside the living room.”