Microsoft researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking new technology they have been developing that will allow you to control your smartphone whilst it’s still in your pocket. This innovative system uses a new type of custom capacitive touch sensor that can track gestures through the fabric of your clothes.
As the properties of fabric can vary considerably from garment to garment, the team of researchers consisting of Scott Saponas, Chris Harrison, and Hrvoje Benko have needed to test the fabric in a number of different situations. They have now successfully managed to get it working with around 25 commonly used fabrics. Software running on your smartphone converts the gestures it feels through the fabric into commands. Watch a video demonstrating the new PocketTouch technology after the jump.
How PocketTouch Works
The PocketTouch technology leverages the principles of capacitive sensing, which is the same technology used in most modern touchscreens. However, the challenge here was to make it work through various types of fabric. The researchers had to account for different thicknesses, textures, and materials, which could all affect the sensitivity and accuracy of the touch sensor. By fine-tuning the sensor and the accompanying software, they were able to create a system that can accurately interpret gestures made through the fabric.
For example, a swipe up or down could be used to scroll through a list, while a tap could be used to select an item. The technology could also potentially recognize more complex gestures, such as drawing shapes or letters, to perform specific commands. This opens up a wide range of possibilities for interacting with your smartphone without having to take it out of your pocket.
Potential Applications and Future Prospects
As with most research projects, there is no word at the moment whether this will ever see the light of day and become a mainstream technology included within our smartphones. However, the potential applications for PocketTouch are vast. Imagine being able to control your music, answer calls, or even send quick text messages without ever having to take your phone out of your pocket. This could be particularly useful in situations where it is inconvenient or unsafe to take out your phone, such as while walking in a crowded area or during a workout.
Moreover, this technology could be integrated into other wearable devices, such as smartwatches or fitness trackers, to provide even more seamless and intuitive ways to interact with our gadgets. It could also pave the way for new types of clothing designed specifically to enhance the functionality of PocketTouch, such as jackets with built-in touch-sensitive panels.
However, there are also challenges to consider. One potential issue is the durability of the fabric when used with PocketTouch. Frequent gesturing could cause wear and tear, leading to holes or thinning of the material. Additionally, the technology would need to be refined to ensure it works reliably in all conditions, including different lighting and weather scenarios.
In conclusion, while PocketTouch is still in the research phase, it represents an exciting step forward in the way we interact with our devices. If it does become a mainstream technology, it could significantly change the way we use our smartphones and other gadgets, making them more accessible and convenient to use in a variety of situations.
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