Minority Report computer control seems to be edging closer and closer every week. Microsoft’s Kinect motion controller has now been modified to control Windows 7.
The new Kinect hack has been created by MIT Media Lab Fluid Interfaces Group and allows you to control Windows 7 with hand gestures in front of the screen. This innovative approach brings us one step closer to the futuristic interfaces depicted in movies like Minority Report. Watch the video after the jump to see it in action.
How DepthJS Works
DepthJS is a system that makes Javascript communicate with Microsoft’s Kinect in order to navigate web pages and browse, just as if you were in Minority Report. The system uses the depth-sensing capabilities of the Kinect to interpret hand gestures and translate them into commands that the computer can understand. This allows users to perform tasks such as scrolling through web pages, opening applications, and even playing games without ever touching a mouse or keyboard. Well, the system is proof of concept but I am sure it won’t be long before we all can.
Potential Applications and Future Developments
The potential applications for this technology are vast. Imagine being able to control your entire home entertainment system with just a wave of your hand, or navigating through complex design software with simple gestures. The healthcare industry could also benefit, allowing surgeons to manipulate medical imaging without having to touch potentially contaminated surfaces. Additionally, educational environments could see a transformation, with teachers using gesture-based controls to interact with digital whiteboards and other teaching aids.
While the current implementation is still in its early stages, the rapid pace of technological advancement suggests that we may not have to wait long to see more refined and widely available versions of this technology. Companies like Microsoft are continually investing in research and development to push the boundaries of what is possible with motion-sensing technology. As these systems become more sophisticated, we can expect to see even more seamless and intuitive ways to interact with our devices.
The MIT Media Lab Fluid Interfaces Group’s hack of the Kinect to control Windows 7 is an exciting glimpse into the future of human-computer interaction. As we continue to develop and refine these technologies, the possibilities for their application are limited only by our imagination. Whether in the home, workplace, or beyond, gesture-based controls have the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with the digital world.
Via Gadget Venue
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
