BT trials motion-sensing tech for laptops

BT is trialling a motion-sensing technology for use with mobile devices such as tablet PCs and laptops that means users won't need a keyboard or mouse.

The system is essentially a small adaptor that connects to a mobile device via the USB port, and allows the user to manipulate menus and applications simply by moving or tilting their machine.

The BT Balance technology has been developed at the company's research and venturing labs at Adastral Park in Ipswich and is currently being field tested.

It uses an accelerometer chip -- similar to that found in the Nintendo Wii console -- allowing users to control various applications simply by tilting the screen.

This could mean moving the cursor, viewing a map, surfing the Internet or even turning the pages of a digital book.

The tech was initially developed by BT researcher Dave Chatting and has been championed by Adam Oliver, head of age and disability research at BT.

Oliver told CNET.co.uk's sister site, silicon.com: "It's another sensory way of working with a computer. Sometimes the simple ideas are the best ideas."

He said the aim of the research is to increase human interaction with technology, and create a technology that reduces the digital divide.

Oliver said the tech has the potential to be used in a number of different ways, such as allowing elderly people or those with dexterity problems, to make use of modern IT.

Oliver likened BT Balance to the Etch A Sketch toy. "It's getting the language of tilt," he said.

He sees potential for the tech to be used by professionals in conditions where manipulating a keyboard is difficult or where they are unable to use both hands.

This could include engineers or technicians working in difficult conditions and requiring quick navigation of menus, or even people who want to work on a crowded train.

BT has no solid plans for the tech but Oliver confirmed it is "working research", with advanced prototypes now being tested. He envisages a product emerging in the next two to three years.