Minority Report becomes reality

A few weeks ago we wrote about interfaces used in movies. And although these types of interface look really impressive, they are almost never realistic. Until now… because the science advisor of Minority Report has been working on a working prototype, based on the interface in the movie. And I have to admit that this so-called ‘spatial operating environment’ g-speak looks almost as impressive as in the movie.

Oblong Industries is the company behind the prototype. They believe that their interfaces ‘brings the first major step in computer interface since 1984.’ Oblong states that ‘g-speak will fundamentally change the way people use machines at work, in the living room, in conference rooms, in vehicles.’ But although it looks really interesting, it also seems to require a very active attitude of the user. Large arm (beyond hand) gestures are needed and very ‘enthusiastic’ interactions with a large environment. I wonder if this is what people like in everyday life… Isn’t subtlety a better direction? Small subtle gestures, needing a small environment.

The interface designed by Oblong Industries:

g-speak overview 1828121108 from john underkoffler on Vimeo.

The interface from Minority Report: