Summary
A recently publishedNintendopatent 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.Nintendofaced 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 recentreveal 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.
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 likeJust 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 toprevious 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 otherNintendo gaming technology patentproducts being released to consumers.
With audiences gearing up for theSwitch 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 whetherNintendoplans to launch the motion-sensor box in the future.
