Some of our readers might remember the Leap Motion device we featured back in August of this year, which has been created to provide Kinect-style gesture control to computer systems. This innovative device has garnered significant attention due to its impressive capabilities and potential applications across various fields.
However, the Leap Motion device is 200 times more accurate than the Microsoft Kinect motion controller, which was initially designed for the Xbox 360 gaming console. This level of precision opens up a myriad of possibilities for developers and users alike, making it a groundbreaking tool in the realm of gesture control technology.
New Development Tools and Opportunities
Now, Leap Motion has announced that they have created a number of new development tools and will be releasing 10,000 Leap units to new developers. This initiative aims to aid developers in creating and building software applications and games for the new gesture control device. By providing these units, Leap Motion is fostering an environment of innovation and creativity, encouraging developers to explore the full potential of this technology.
“Our top priority is making sure that when the Leap Motion controller ships to consumers, it is supported by a wide array of quality apps,” Leap Motion co-founder and CEO Michael Buckwald said in a statement. This commitment to quality ensures that users will have access to a diverse range of applications that leverage the unique capabilities of the Leap Motion device.
Potential Applications and Future Prospects
Once officially launched, the Leap gesture control device will also ship with its own app store. This dedicated platform will serve as a hub for users to discover and download applications specifically designed for Leap Motion. The company has already unveiled the very first game developed to use their device, which can be seen in the video below. This game showcases the potential for immersive and interactive experiences that Leap Motion can offer.
Unfortunately, no information is currently available on whether major applications such as Microsoft Office, iPhoto, or even web browsers such as Chrome will incorporate support for Leap gestures. However, the potential for such integrations is immense. Imagine being able to navigate through a presentation in Microsoft Office with a simple wave of your hand or editing photos in iPhoto with precise gestures. The possibilities are endless, and as soon as information comes to light, we will keep you updated as always.
In addition to gaming and productivity applications, Leap Motion’s technology could revolutionize fields such as education, healthcare, and design. For instance, in education, teachers could use gesture control to create more engaging and interactive lessons. In healthcare, surgeons could manipulate 3D models of organs during preoperative planning without touching any surfaces, thereby maintaining sterility. Designers could use Leap Motion to create intricate 3D models with natural hand movements, enhancing creativity and precision.
The release of the new development tools and the distribution of 10,000 units to developers is a significant step forward for Leap Motion. It not only demonstrates the company’s commitment to fostering a robust ecosystem of applications but also highlights the potential for widespread adoption of gesture control technology.
As we look to the future, it is clear that Leap Motion has the potential to transform the way we interact with computers and digital content. By enabling more natural and intuitive interactions, this technology could pave the way for a new era of computing. We eagerly await further developments and the official launch of the Leap Motion device, confident that it will bring about exciting changes in various industries.
Source: Venture Beat
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