Apple Developing Wiimote-Like Controller?
The present invention can include multi-dimensional (e.g., 2-D or 3-D) remote control systems that can detect an absolute location to which a remote control is pointing in first and second orthogonal axes (e.g., the x- and y-axes). Remote control systems of the present invention also can detect the absolute position of the remote control in a third orthogonal axis (e.g., the z-axis).
The 3D remote could be used to manipulate objects and photos on the screen as well as zoom in and out based on user movements.
The patent application describes the use of fixed light sources as well as accelerometers resembling the implementation of the Nintendo Wii controller. The Nintendo Wii has been the surprise hit amongst the next generation gaming consoles primarily due to its innovative controller. AppleInsider speculates that Apple's version of the controller is intended for the Apple TV.
As with all patent applications, this may not represent technology planned for any particular project, though recent job descriptions have listed "remote controls" as one of the technologies Apple is developing. Apple currently ships the simple Apple Remote with their iMacs and Apple TV.
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I'm curious to know how many people use their remote with their computer. I have one....still in its' plastic sleeve.;)
I've used mine a few times, but only when giving powerpoint or keynote presentations, and my MB is attached to a projector. For that it's great, but I haven't yet found any other use that really calls for it.
Nice to see some transformation finally for the Apple Remote.
That would be so cool to get a Wii-mote type remote control with every Mac that can do everything your mouse or trackpad can do.
It would probably even work better with a Mac because you wouldn't need a sensor bar, it could be built into the display.
Also, I wonder how this would affect the Mac as a gaming platform?
but for people like me that do some serious videogaming, the remote is nice because i'll play music through my iMac while sitting in my rocker chair and be able to change a song without getting up or looking at the screen.
Also, I wonder how this would affect the Mac as a gaming platform?
It definitely wouldn't attract hardcore gamers. Look at the wii. Sure, the remote is great and all, but the games are so basic and they mainly attract the casual gamer. So, I don't think this would really bring mac up in the gaming market. It will just be another benefit of what is already there.
It definitely wouldn't attract hardcore gamers. Look at the wii. Sure, the remote is great and all, but the games are so basic and they mainly attract the casual gamer. So, I don't think this would really bring mac up in the gaming market. It will just be another benefit of what is already there.
Attracting the "casual" gaming market has worked out pretty well for Nintendo.
Apple's looking for people who want to play games, not live them.
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