Nuidroid could bring Kinect-like functionality to Google TV [VIDEO]
posted on Mar 25th 2013 at 9:18pm by Edgar Cervantes
NVIDIA’s GPU Technology Conference (GTC) was not the most eventful, but we did find some great things to write home about. As a Google TV enthusiast, one of my favorite booths at the show floor was 3DiVi’s. This new company has developed a product named Nuidroid, which essentially offers a Kinect-like experience for OUYA. The technology can be applied to any device, though, even Google TVs.
At the show floor, Nuidroid was being tested with an ASUS 3D sensor and an OUYA gaming console. One could control a game via motion, by simply moving one’s body in accordance to the desired command. It is not always perfect, but it is also very fun and gets us excited about the future. We were only able to notice a few glitches here and there when it wouldn’t recognize motion properly, but it is important to remember this is still an early prototype.
Though Cassie (the speaker) did not mention any plans for Google TV integration, she did say the company was currently talking to possible partners… and some of these are TV manufacturers. This technology extends beyond gaming; it can be utilized for training, medical rehabilitation, controlling the “smart home” and using other smart devices.
Simply slap a specialized camera on a unit and Google (or its partners) can adopt this technology. It would mean a huge step for our favorite smart TV platform. LG is already using something similar to the Wii with its remote, where one can control the TV by using the accessory as a pointer. In theory, using Nuidroid’s technology would not be a far-fetched idea.
Such features could improve gaming, as well as every other aspect of the TV. Get some exercising apps in there, maybe make it possible to switch channels and volume via hand commands. How about turning on the TV when you sit in front of it? The possibilities are endless.
We are already taking advantage of voice capabilities with Voice Search, so there is no doubt we are moving towards a more integrated and interactive model. I can see this being the next step – can you?
