Wrist Sensor Allows You to Control Any Device with a Wave

Researchers at Newcastle University and Microsoft Research Cambridge have developed a wrist sensor that allows you to control any device with a wave of your hand.

Entitled 'Digits,' the device maps 3D finger movement and orientation via a camera and can recognize specific gestures. It then translates gestures into commands. For example, a thumbs up could allow you to control the TV.

''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," the Telegraph cites Newcastle University PhD student David Kim as saying.

Scientists stressed that the device can even allow users to use cash machines with an increased sense of security as it'll allow them to enter the PIN number while the device is in their pockets. However, scientists say they're still working on the device, especially the size.

"Ultimately, we would like to reduce Digits to the size of a watch that can be worn all the time. We wanted users to be able to interact spontaneously with their electronic devices using simple gestures without even having to reach for them," Kim added. "Can you imagine how much easier it would be if you could answer your mobile phone while it's still in your pocket or buried at the bottom of your bag?"

The project will be officially revealed this week at an international conference based around human-computer interaction in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

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  • waxdart
    The windows paper clip pops up and says " Hi, would you like to shoot a web or cup some balls?"
    Reply
  • southernshark
    That's what I want... that thing on my wrist all day.......
    Reply
  • amishrabbi
    "Can you imagine how much easier it would be if you could answer your mobile phone while it's still in your pocket or buried at the bottom of your bag?

    this would be great! it's so easy to talk to someone when my phone is buried...
    Reply
  • rebel1280
    The idea, if executed properly (much smaller size or at least less cumbersome) could change the lives of many people with disabilities. Or - scifi moment coming - the watch could project a small holographic like screen maybe 7"x5" that you can interact with using your fingers. Could be a phone attached to a blue tooth headset and bam, you got a the functionality of a phone, tablet and HUD of sorts all in one :) / end scifi fantasy
    Reply