Read more at: Microsoft shows off its vision for gesture-controlled PCs | ZDNetMicrosoft is looking for new ways for people to interact with computers that build upon the actions that mouse and keyboard make possible.
The software giant's search for new human-machine interfaces has led it to investigate gesture-recognition, where a computer user controls their machine using hand movements.
On Wednesday Microsoft showed off a system that captures gestures made above the surface of the PC keyboard and translates them into commands for Windows.
At the base of this new control system is the Kinect, Microsoft's sensor bar that not only captures 2D video but the depth of the scene it's filming — allowing it to place objects in 3D space.
Kinect was originally developed as a controller for the Xbox 360 games console, but the device is also available with a software development kit for Windows PCs and has been used to develop a number of non-gaming applications.
I can just see my computer going crazy because I scratch my nose or try to chase a bug off my monitor screen.
All seriousness aside, I can also see serious shoulder pain for many people (including me).
I think that they are over reaching on some of this stuff. I cannot see any good reason to having one. Likewise I see no reason for having a touch screen on a desktop.
Actually, these sorts of things have their place.
Did you know Microsoft's tablet is actually a condensed version of their Restaurant Table? Microsoft has been working on creating a "Smart Table", that'll allow the waitress to receive signals when a customers beer is empty, when their done eating, and when they are ready to pay, they can pay by credit card, paypal, cash, or check. This is something that I truly, would love to see implemented. It would revolutionize the restaurant industry, and what not. I've read quite a bit on this, I'll dig up articles if I have too.
These sorts of things shouldn't be discarded at all, or simply as "useless" if they aren't something you would like. I think these are a step towards a different future.
New ideas and new methods are great if the consumer can use them and want them. I like new technology. I just don't like it crammed down my throat.
If one has the proper hardware and a need and desire for a new technology, go for it.
Agreed! Sneeze or slap a mosquito and your computer might blow a gasket.
Sounds to me like Microsoft is just desperate to find something new, so they're throwing mud on the wall to see if anything sticks.
Now they're jumping from swipe & wipe to swing & wing. The former is useless on a PC, and the latter would be useless period.
