IK Multimedia today introduced its "iRing," a finger-worn device serving as a motion-tracking controller. Primarily designed for iOS music apps, the iRing allows users to control sound effects and other music parameters within apps using hand gestures.
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The iRing has three linear markers on the palm-facing side and three triangle-shaped markers on the top that are read by the iPhone's front-facing camera, allowing simple hand movements to be translated into commands within supported apps. Up to six different parameters can be used in each app, with one or two hands completing gestures.
iRing uses patented advanced image-recognition, motion control and precise geometric positioning technology to give you control of assignable parameters within your apps. It uses the front-facing camera on your device to determine the exact position of the wearable rings, and recognizes and tracks the movement of the linear or triangular patterned iRing "rings" allowing you to control up to six parameters at a time.
The iRing is designed to be worn between two fingers and IK Multimedia claims that it is comfortable enough to be worn while operating musical instruments and other more traditional music controllers.
IK Multimedia's iRing includes two double-sided ring controllers and two free apps for music applications: iRing Music Maker and iRing FX/Controller. While the iRing Music Maker does not require any music knowledge and allows for simple gestures to change beats and control rhythmic elements, the iRing FX/Controller app is aimed at skilled musicians and DJs, converting information from the iRing into MIDI control information configured by the user.
IK Multimedia also plans to incorporate iRing compatibility into its range of music apps, including GrooveMaker, DJ Rig, AmpliTube, and more. The company also has a free development kit for developers that want to utilize iRing technology within their apps.
The iRing will be available during the first quarter of 2014 for $24.99. It can be pre-ordered from the IK Multimedia website.
Top Rated Comments
As much as I like IK Multimedia, this is very, very poor (or to say it with the presenters own words: d'oh :p )
1 - It's called a ring, but you don't wear it on your finger. You wedge it between your fingers. I'm a bit skeptical that it'll actually be comfortable. They describe it as being "comfortable enough to use while playing an instrument", but what the hell does that mean? I could put my legs in boiling water and play an instrument at the same time - that doesn't make my legs comfortable.
2 - Why bother with an accessory at all if it just tracks it with the camera? Why not just make it recognize, oh, IDK, your hand?
3 - Why only music apps? I can't think of any instrument that leaves my hands free enough to make in-air gestures but constrained enough to not touch the screen.