Thalmic Labs rolls out muscle-sensing Myo gesture control
updated 03:30 pm EST, Mon February 25, 2013
Armband uses minute electrical charge in muscle activity for detection
Startup Thalmic Labs has announced the launch of Myo, a new gesture control system. The device is housed in an armband worn on the forearm that senses electrical activity in the muscles, allowing users to interact with digital technologies using fingers and hands without relying on camera-based capture. The armband can connect wirelessly to computers, mobile devices, and other electronics over a Bluetooth 4.0 connection.
The Myo has been designed as a one-size-fits-all device that will accommodate most individuals. Both Windows and OS X are supported, according to the manufacturer.
When sensing the muscle movements of the user, the device can detect changes in hand gesture right down to each individual finger. When tracking the positioning in space of the arm and hand, the device can detect subtle movements in all directions, with the developer claiming that since the muscles activate slightly before finger motion, the device can catch the motion before the digits start moving.
Myo is available for pre-order at the company's website for $149. Along with the pre-sale of the device, Thalmic Labs is also launching the Myo API that will allow developers to utilize the device's hardware to experiment, build, and eventually profit from future applications of MYO technology.
