Microsoft may not be the only one looking to develop its own Wiimote-like game controller. Apple is researching a 3D remote of its own, according to AppleInsider.
The Apple TV and its current remote control.
(Credit: Apple)The research, reportedly outlined in a November 2006 patent filing disclosed this week, describes a device that would work similarly to the Nintendo Wii controller "in video games to position a user's character or to otherwise track the movement of the remote control in a user's environment." The remote would apparently be designed to work with Apple TV as its console.
The device would also use some of the multitouch features seen on other Apple products, including the iPhone and MacBooks. According to the filing, it would "zoom into and out of an image or a portion thereof based on the absolute position of the remote control."
Patent filings are never any guarantee of actual products, of course. But there will be particular interest in this one because a move by Apple into the game industry has been rumored--and hoped for, by loyalists--for years. So if nothing else, it will keep that flame alive at least a little while longer.
Microsoft is reportedly working on its own version of Nintendo's Wiimote and plans to introduce it by the end of the year. The report comes from MTV News, which attributes the information to a developer "who has been brief on the project" but sought anonymity to preserve business relationships.
The source told MTV News that the project, supposedly in development since last August, is being designed by Rare, the U.K.-based game studio acquired by the software giant in 2002. Microsoft would not comment on the report.
Although its functions are similar to those of the Wiimote, according to the report, the device does not need a companion controller to be used with it. The device has "face buttons, an analog stick, and microphone," MTV News said. A purported sketch of a working prototype of the device can be seen here.
(Credit:
Nintendo)
Nintendo has revealed the Wii Remote Jacket, a silicone grip intended to make the Wiimote more comfortable in the hand and give it some semblance of protection. Silicone sleeves for the Wiimote have been available since the Wii first came out, but this new product carries an important distinction: it's free.
Every new Nintendo Wii, Wiimote, and copy of Wii Play that ships from today on will include the Wii Remote Jacket. Nintendo hasn't announced any price changes for these products, so new Wii and Wiimote buyers will be getting the jackets gratis. If you've already bought a Wii and want your own jacket, fear not; Nintendo is offering free Wii Remote Jackets to users who already own Wiis. Just go to Nintendo's site, enter your serial number and how may jackets you need (up to four), and you should get your new Wiimote grips in a few weeks.
Nintendo is shipping out new Wii products with the Wii Remote Jacket today, and they should hit stores around October 15.
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