Digits: The Wrist-Mounted Motion Controller
Innovation in Motion Control
Microsoft’s Digits, a prototype wrist-mounted sensor, takes motion control to new heights. Using sensors and an infrared camera, Digits creates a 3D model of your hand, allowing you to interact with screens and devices in real time. This innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we control our digital world.
Beyond the Living Room: A Virtual Controller for All Screens
Unlike traditional motion control systems, Digits is not tethered to a game console. Instead, it focuses solely on your hand and its movements, making it a versatile tool for controlling multiple devices and screens. Whether you’re pointing to items on a TV screen, dialing phone numbers, or playing video games, Digits acts as a virtual controller that goes with you wherever you go.
Function over Form: A Clunky Prototype with Big Potential
Currently, Digits is still a prototype, and its design reflects its focus on function over form. It may not be the sleekest device, but its creators at Microsoft are more concerned with its performance and functionality. The goal is to eventually scale it down to a more compact and visually appealing design, similar to a watch.
Other Developments in Motion Control
Digits is just one example of the growing trend towards gesture-based control. Other recent developments include:
- Sweeping Sensation: A Japanese company is developing an infrared sensor that allows you to swipe or zoom content on screens without touching them.
- Hands-Free Driving: Pioneer’s GPS units can be controlled with hand gestures, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road.
- Head-Mounted Control: Motorola’s wearable computer uses head movements to scroll, pan, and zoom documents and schematics.
- Touchless Page Flipping: Qualcomm’s processor enables page flipping on tablets through gestures, eliminating the need to touch the screen.
- Precise Digital Signatures: Apple has patented a process for creating more precise digital signatures using finger movements on device screens.
- Car-to-Driver Interaction: Toyota’s Insect electric car uses Kinect sensors to recognize drivers and unlock doors with a wave.
- Brainwave Control: Sony is developing technology that allows users to control games using their gaze and eventually their brainwaves.
Digits in Action: A Video Demonstration
To better understand how Digits works, watch Microsoft’s video explainer below:
[Insert video explainer here]
The Future of Motion Control: Hands-Free Interaction
Digits and other gesture-based control technologies have the potential to transform our interactions with devices and screens. By eliminating the need for physical buttons and touchscreens, these technologies can make our lives easier and more seamless. As these technologies continue to develop, we can expect to see even more innovative and groundbreaking applications for motion control in the future.