Gesture recognition involves the sensing of human gestures and movements by a computer's mathematical algorithms. We've seen gesture control in gadgets. Take the Myo motion control arm band, the popular Leap Motion, and of course Microsoft's Kinect for example. All of devices use a simple gesture recognition algorithm detection, but still require touching the screen or controller for one reason or another. We're about to see some advancements in this technology, as Elliptic Labs wants to once-and-for-all take the touching out of touch-less gesture with its new ultrasonic gesture control.

After hearing about early stages of this input technology dating back nearly five years, then a proof-of-concept demonstration of the company's hands-free ultrasonic gesture control last year, us “techies” have been patiently waiting for what the company would uncover. Elliptic Labs has finally announced its new development, called “Multi Layer Interaction”, at the annual Combined Exhibition of Advanced Technologies (CEATEC) trade show in Tokyo. Multi Layer Interaction, nearly self represented, is a feature that allows devices to display all sorts of content depending on the proximity of the user's hand.

Add that to what we're used to when it comes to gesture control- the swiping for images, apps, and navigation, and we're hitting a new level in intuitive device interactions. With Multiple Layer Interaction, a smartphone that normally has one layer (the touchscreen), is now broken down into three dimensions. It all works by using ultrasound to track movements above and around the device. The system interprets an area of 180 degrees, and up to 50 cm in distance (TomsHardware). As your hand moves towards your smartphone, the screen may become lit and then display your notifications. Move your hand closer, and you may see your email, for example. Elliptic Labs CEO Laila Danielsen says, “It's all about improving the user experience and by presenting easier ways to interact with mobile devices”.

While other devices use optical means for interpretation (the need to wave your hand directly in front of a camera or sensor), Elliptical is more accurate in its ability to sense where your hand is. No touching is needed, and the entire zone above and around the device becomes interactive on multiple levels. The system can even identify the difference between the finger, wrist, hand and body motion. Yep, that means just walking up to your smartphone can prompt it to turn on.

Elliptical Labs hopes to see its technology in tablets, smartphones, and wearables such as smartwatches. Product release dates are unknown, however the new ultrasonic motion system will be on display at CEATEC this week where more information is expected to be given. Until then, an SDK is available for interested parties.