Microsoft Research has demoed a new augmented mechanical keyboard that allows users to use motion controls either on or slightly above the keyboard to interact with their computers. The prototype was curiously made using keycaps from an Apple keyboard.
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A low-resolution matrix of infrared (IR) proximity sensors is interspersed with the keys of a regular mechanical keyboard. This results in coarse but high frame-rate motion data. We extend a machine learning algorithm, traditionally used for static classification only, to robustly support dynamic, temporal gestures.
The gestures that the keyboard can recognize include traditional gestures like "pinch-to-zoom" and swiping to static gestures like holding a single finger above the keyboard to advanced gestures like turning an imaginary steering wheel.
It's unclear whether the augmented keyboard, referred to as the Type-Hover-Swipe, could eventually turn into a real product, but it's another step in Microsoft exploring motion control after its Kinect device. Apple, too, has been exploring motion sensing with its purchase of PrimeSense, the 3D body sensing firm that developed the technology for Kinect. The Type-Hover-Swipe keyboard is also similar to the technology of Leap Motion, who former Apple iAd chief Andy Miller worked for for close to two years.
Top Rated Comments
Microsoft Research does research. Hence the word "research" in its name.
Yeah? And when was the last time Apple did something remotely exciting? There's nothing wrong with showing off a concept. If there is a viable application for it and can be successfully marketed and sold, someone will run with it.
Thinner iPhone 6? How exciting is that? I can tell you, when I purchased my iPhone 5, I wasn't thinking "I'll bet the iPhone 6 will be fatter"
Someone's thinking outside the box, and it isn't :apple:
I personally don't have any interest in this keyboard, but as an enthusiast of new technology, I'm glad to see someone isn't afraid to do something new.
Contrary to what you may think, the Apple way isn't the only way, nor is it necessarily the correct way.
Ain't no thing.
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Ah, the traditional MacRumors "false trade-off" fallacy.
I will guarantee this thing is a PURE gimmick. They're comfortable showing you a video of something they themselves don't know the value of.