Microsoft Creates Kinect-Like System Using Laptop Speaker & Microphone 169
MrSeb writes "Microsoft Research, working with the University of Washington, has developed a Kinect-like system that uses your computer's built-in microphone and speakers to provide object detection and gesture recognition, much in the same way that a submarine uses sonar. Called SoundWave, the new technology uses the Doppler effect to detect any movements and gestures in the proximity of a computer. In the case of SoundWave, your computer's built-in speaker is used to emit ultrasonic (18-22KHz) sound waves, which change frequency depending on where your hand (or body) is in relation to the computer. This change in frequency is measured by your computer's built-in microphone, and then some fairly complex software works out your motion/gesture. The obvious advantage of SoundWave over a product like Kinect is that it uses existing, commodity hardware; it could effectively equip every modern laptop with a gesture-sensing interface. The Microsoft Research team is reporting a 90-100% accuracy rate for SoundWave, even in noisy environments."
Re:Sounds Interesting ... (Score:5, Funny)
Why is my dog barking at my laptop?
Re:Sounds Interesting ... (Score:2, Funny)
Good job reading the summary:
"The Microsoft Research team is reporting a 90-100% accuracy rate for SoundWave, even in noisy environments."
Re:Sounds Interesting ... (Score:3, Funny)
Why is my dog barking at my laptop?
Because that is not really your laptop, you moron! It is a polymimetic-type Terminator! Your dog is trying to warn you! Run for your life!
Re:ultrasonic? (Score:2, Funny)
Fun office game for the younger crowd: Let the old geezers think you can't find the source of the sound. Let them have their little fun now at the end of their lives, this is pretty much the high point for them.
Re:Sounds Interesting ... (Score:5, Funny)
Computer: Hi there, I see you are giving me the middle finger salute. Would you like help with:
1. filing out your Windows registration
2. sending us money to unlock exciting new features of Windows
3. allowing all your warnings and alerts to use the voice chip
Re:Ultrasonic? (Score:4, Funny)
Not surprising. Everyone on Slashdot is rare and special.
SoundWave? (Score:4, Funny)
Re:Sounds Interesting ... (Score:5, Funny)
Exactly! Just like radiation!
Re:Sounds Interesting ... (Score:5, Funny)
So you're saying that it's a device the will make the wife and kids leave me the f** alone so that I can get some work done?!!
Does it run on Linux?