Intel will use Hillcrest’s Freespace motion control technology for its IPTV set-top boxes and media servers.
Intel will offer the set-top box reference design to TV operators and OEMs.
With the Freespace Motion Engine software embedded on the Intel Media Server Reference Design (MSRD) kit and controlled by a handheld remote control, TV operators can provide subscribers the ability to control TV with mouse-like navigation, and point-and-click simplicity.
Hillcrest’s Freespace motion control technology is currently used in Smart TVs from LG and TCL, Roku players, and Warpia streaming media players (WarpiaTV).
Unlike motion control systems that rely on line-of-site (such as cameras or infrared), Hillcrest’s remotes do not need to be used, or pointed directly, in front of a TV screen or computer screen to work.
“Computers and smartphones have used motion-based, point-and-click interfaces for years because they are the most efficient way to navigate large volumes of content,” said Chad Lucien, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Hillcrest Labs.
“Intel has seized onto this idea for TV, and is now driving innovation for serving TV service providers. We’re extremely proud that Intel has selected the Freespace MotionEngine for use in its new set-top box reference kits.”
“Hillcrest is a leader in motion-based TV software and products,” said Ran Senderovitz, general manager, service provider division marketing at Intel.
“Operators are seeking better and innovative ways to help consumers find and navigate shows and applications. With Freespace, we’re creating an out-of-the box, motion-ready reference solution for operators and OEMs globally.”
