Microsoft researchers build muscle-computer interface, play air Guitar Hero

Legendary DIYer Johnny Chung Lee may have only been with Microsoft for a few months, but it looks like he's already making his presence felt, even when he's not working on projects himself. His latest effort involves getting videos from the User Interface Software and Technology (or UIST) conference online, including this look at a new muscle-computer interface developed by Phd student Scott Samponas and some other folks working with Microsoft Research. While it obviously has a number or potentially exciting and practical uses (like controlling devices when you're hands are full, or when you're running), Samponas et al apparently just couldn't help themselves from demonstrating one of its most obvious applications: an true implementation of air Guitar Hero. Video after the break.

[Smart People Play Tuba Posted Oct 28th 2009 7:45AM]

. . . and some Metallica whenever your throw some horns.

[theswiss Posted Oct 28th 2009 5:46AM]

that means I will be able to restart my computer after a bluescreen when I contract my muscles in my hands by doing the bird with both hands?

[N900 Posted Oct 28th 2009 7:45AM]

tl;dgj

[Smart People Play Tuba Posted Oct 28th 2009 7:46AM]

N900 must've been typing using this device.

[zibraham Posted Oct 28th 2009 9:06AM]

I can change the music without getting up and ruining the mood

[Euclid Posted Oct 28th 2009 9:14AM]

my first step as a consumer to become cyborg, SIGN ME UP! I'm drooling just thinking of the convenience/laziness of always being connected to a computer, powerfully mobile phone perhaps. Also, think of all the stats you could get of your self throughout the day (BAM you know I'm a geek now; stat collector) you computer could tell you at the end of the day, "dude you were bloody lazy get out and doing something". I feel like we are some how on the precipice of an new age with fluid human-computer cooperation. can't wait.

[jon Posted Oct 28th 2009 12:31PM]

Miles, If you can't see the potential of this tech, you really have no business on a tech blog.