Philips Introduces uWand, Says the Clicker is Dead
Just when you thought changing television channels couldn’t get any easier, Philips astounds the world by creating the uWand, the first “remote touch pointer” control. General Manager of uWand at Philips, Navin Natoewal, says, “The traditional remote control, with its 50 or more buttons, simply isn’t keeping pace with modern interactive television.”
If you’ve ever played a Nintendo Wii, then you're familiar with the technology behind the uWand. Button pushes along with motion data are sent via an integrated sensor or an external sensor bar (for backwards compatibility). “Flicking” in one direction or another while holding down a button will allow you to manipulate various devices. Philips claims the remote could control set-top boxes, media PCs, and other home electronics.
This could be a risky gadget for excitable sports fans who might find that they inadvertently switch channels during intense game moments.