VIDEO: Microsoft's Muscle Controlled Interface

We're all eager to hear more about Microsoft's motion sensing project Natal but while we're focusing on presentations from June of last year, Microsoft seems to be focusing on something else.

We're expecting to hear more on Natal this week at CES, however, Ballmer will likely be faced with questions about new systems based on muscle control. According to Boy Genius Report, the company has filed for a patent covering several methods of computing that utilize electromyography (EMG). EMG would translate the electrical activity produced by muscles into instructions to control your computer. EMG is already used in advanced prosthetic and in the millitary but Microsoft is trying to bring the technology home to users.

BGR reports that the patent Microsoft has asked for takes this technology and applies it to consumer level devices using electrodes attached to the arms, head, chest and legs. Microsoft even hints at a wearable electromyography controller that could be worn during play.

Check out the video below to see EMG gaming in action.

  • volks1470
    wow, thats pretty cool...although how would on go about placing the sensors on themselves? Do they know where they go? Will you always have wires running up your arm? What about an accidental gesture?

    I like the idea a lot, but i don't really see this catching on any time soon.
    Reply
  • sliem
    How uncomfortable.
    Reply
  • jhansonxi
    I can think of a few pr0n applications...
    Reply
  • plinkoblinko
    This is simply awesome. Almost as good as the robot that can catch a cellphone.

    I can see how wires would definitely interfere though. If wireless was an option, I would get that for sure.
    Reply
  • redgarl
    It should be awesome for peoples who lost an arm or an hand... but for anyone else... it only means playing AIR Guitar Hero.
    Reply
  • The application capability for this once the technology gets small enough to be put on a film-like interface is astonishing.

    "If wireless was an option, I would get that for sure."
    The last 10 seconds of the video show a wireless option coming in the next generation of the prototype.
    Reply
  • ravewulf
    Probably won't have the lag that natal is supposed to have either. Direct connect from your electrical system to the computer's (granted it's just the end muscle signals and not a direct connect to the mind)
    Reply
  • doc70
    here comes the future...
    Reply
  • mcreskiller
    that would be just amazing :D go microsoft!
    Reply
  • dogofwars
    Of course though you would need to shave!!! LOL :)
    Reply