Summary
- Nintendo patents a motion-sensing device similar to the Wii sensor bar for potential future hardware.
- The motion-sensor box patent reveals Nintendo’s possible continued focus on motion controls, potentially accompanying the Switch 2 in some way.
A recently published Nintendo patent reveals a motion-sensing device that attaches to the top of a television and tracks the movement of a controller, similar to the sensor bar provided with the Wii console, possibly giving an insight into future hardware launches that could release alongside the Switch 2. Nintendo faced some criticism for the Wii sensor bar, as a number of users had difficulty with the limited tracking abilities, and audiences may be surprised to see the company working on a product similar to older hardware with a new console set to launch this year.
Following the recent reveal of the Switch 2, Nintendo stocks have risen in value and industry experts and players around the world have begun speculating on the potential hardware offerings and launch titles to come with the Japanese gaming giant’s next console generation. While many are looking to more recent advancements and standards set by competitors, Nintendo also seems to be keeping its previous developments in mind with other projects behind the scenes.
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According to a patent published on January 15, Nintendo is working on a motion-sensor box that would follow the position and movement of a controller, very similar to the sensor bar that was released alongside the Wii in 2006. Interestingly, the patent was first filed back in April 2022, with a supporting document published in October 2023. This motion-sensor box patent includes the remaining portions of the original April 2022 filing and specifically details tracking the movement of a controller to output an image on a display screen, even giving the example of “game programs” for the use of this technology. Whether this would work similarly to the Wii motion tracking in games like Just Dance, where the player’s movements are tracked via sensor bar and displayed on screen, presently remains unconfirmed, yet this motion-sensor box does bear a striking resemblance to previous Nintendo hardware launches.
Nintendo Motion-Sensor Box Patent Details
As detailed in the Nintendo motion-sensor box patent, the device would utilize reflected light rays to “scan” an area and sense the location and direction of a “movable body.” The internal sensor would calculate the change in location and direction to determine and track movement, allowing for a replicated scan to be projected on a monitor or screen. Nintendo has shown a continued prioritization of motion controls with its Switch Joy-Con controllers, which have been confirmed to make a return with the Switch 2. It remains to be seen if this motion-sensor box is intended to be released with the Switch 2, so fans will want to await an official announcement before expecting to see this or other Nintendo gaming technology patent products being released to consumers.
With audiences gearing up for the Switch 2 console release, it is interesting to see what other technological research Nintendo is working on. It is key to note that patents are not always fully developed and launched, so interested fans will want to stay tuned for any news on whether Nintendo plans to launch the motion-sensor box in the future.
Nintendo
- Date Founded
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September 23, 1889
- Headquarters
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Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
- Parent Company
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Nintendo