The whole idea behind the Multi Layer Interaction is to make it easier when interacting with mobile devices, as it starts to look as though touchscreen interfaces alone are no longer enough – just like how we mentioned in 16Lab’s Wearable Computing Ring. This particular advancement in its technology will allow manufacturers to come up with more mobile devices that will be able to deliver a more intuitive navigation experience as well as quicker interactions, and I do wonder just what kind of learning curve will this puppy have. Imagine using it to wake up a device, too, even as the main application processor remains asleep.
It is sensitive enough to respond to even the smallest gesture, with an active area of 180 degrees around the device, and having up to 50 cm with precise distance measurements that are made possible through the wonders of ultrasound.
Its new software developer kit (SDK) is already available, and hopefully this would mean OEMs will begin to roll out intuitive and consumer-friendly touchless gesturing into their devices in the near future – sooner rather than later, kudasai.