LAS VEGAS — While technology companies are introducing tablet computers and Internet- connected TVs by the dozen at the International Consumer Electronics Show, perhaps more intriguing are views from leading manufacturers about emerging technologies.
Among them are motion-based, wirelessly charged and mind-controlled computers, TVs and other consumer electronics.
“I believe in mind control,” Xavier Lauwaert, worldwide marketing manager for Hewlett-Packard, said Thursday during a panel discussion about the future of user interfaces.
Such technology would be like voice control, only a user would simply need to think of what he wanted a device to do, rather than having to say anything.
“The next revolution of the HP PCs will be mind control,” Lauwaert predicted.
For now, the fastest-growing input technology is the touchscreen, with gesture-based devices gaining steam following the success of Microsoft’s Xbox Kinect and Nintendo’s Wii.
“Touch is probably going to be the predominant alternative-input device in the next five or six years,” Lauwaert said.
TV manufacturer LG showed off touch-capable plasma TVs, with the technology essentially turning a 60-inch set into a supersized iPad.
During the user-interface panel, Sony Computer Entertainment senior researcher Richard Marks said mind control has limitations. He believes future user interface will include a combination of buttons and motion- and touch-sensing, depending on the applications.
“There’s a lot of interfaces that make the application better because the interface is a part of it,” said Marks, who works specifically on Sony’s PlayStation console. “Touch for Web browsing . . . feels good. That’s why people like it better than the mouse.”
General Motors and Powermat, which makes wireless charging stations, announced a partnership that will equip GM’s automobiles with Powermat’s technology. In 2012, GM vehicles will feature dashboard technology that can wirelessly charge smartphones and other devices.
GM technology-assessment manager John Suh said during a “powering up without wires” panel discussion that he believes wireless technology will push users toward hands-free talking while driving.
Longer term, GM plans to include wireless sensors and switches in its vehicles to reduce cabling and weight and improve fuel efficiencies.
Andy Vuong: 303-954-1209, avuong@denverpost.com or
