Article: Samsung Filed a Patent for Magnetic VR Hand Controllers

Samsung has filed a patent for magnetic field-sensing hand controllers for use with the Gear VR. Upload VR reports that the patent images show two controllers appearing similar to the current Gear VR controller, only with straps for the back of the hand, allowing for fuller motion tracking and the ability to move the hands without grasping the controllers continuously.

The language of the patent indicates that it is for:

a method of controlling an electronic device, the method includes, based on a magnetic field generated by a source, obtaining a coordinate of a user’s hand; and reflecting the obtained coordinate of the user’s hand in a virtual reality environment based on a change of a location of the source due to a movement of the user.

(source: ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME)

Given that this is only in patent stage right now, there is no guarantee that it will see the light of day any time soon, but it is promising and makes sense for Samsung; one thing holding it back is the lack of full motion controllers and positional tracking. This would take care of one of those issues.

The original Upload VR article is at Samsung Filed A Patent For Magnetic VR Hand Controllers.

Thoughts?

Sounds VERY interesting. I wonder if this would be an accessory for in market product (current gen GearVR) OR for a future product they have in development? In any event it's certainly exciting news. :)

Samsung seems to really be going all in with their VR investment. Bodes well for the industry as a whole imo.