FAQ


What is Mgestyk?

Mgestyk is a new touch-free way to interact with your computer. It lets you control games and other applications just by moving your hands, allowing for more natural and immersive interaction. You can learn more about Mgestyk on our technology page and see it in action on the videos page. 



Does it really exist?

We're not in the movie business (in case the improvised backdrop in the videos didn't give it away). We filmed everything using actual gesture-based input. The YouTube video covered a large number of examples in a short amount of time to show the flexibility of Mgestyk, and this required most clips to be kept short. Slightly longer versions of each example can be seen on the videos page. We will also be releasing new videos periodically so keep an eye on our front page, RSS feed and YouTube channel.



Didn't Sony already do this years ago with the EyeToy?

There have been several attempts at gesture-based input in the past. Mgestyk offers several important advantages over these other products:

  • Mgestyk gestures are processed in 3D using data, meaning that even depth-based gestures (like for controlling the throttle of a plane) are natural and responsive to use.
  • If you've used the PlayStation 2 EyeToy, you're probably familiar with the red LED that flashes when the room isn't lit just right. The EyeToy manual recommends that you "switch on all available lighting in the room and point them at you" or "draw the curtains and use artificial light instead". Mgestyk works even in total darkness - no need to redo your interior lighting!
  • You do not need to keep your hands in front of a specific background with Mgestyk. In fact, people can move around behind you without affecting processing.
  • Mgestyk can detect hand gestures without requiring you to hold up specific objects, wear gloves, use colored tape on your fingers etc. - all you need is your hands!
  • Mgestyk can easily be set up to control any Windows-based game or application. You do not need to wait for developers of a game to implement gesture support.


What gestures does Mgestyk support?

Mgestyk supports a large variety of hand gestures, some of which were already shown in our videos. Our software allows customizing gestures by using a simple language that we developed. This language supports many elements, including the number and location of hands in 3D space and the number and orientation of fingers shown for each of those hands. Essentially, the possibilities are endless, and we are continuously discovering new user-friendly ways to control familiar games and applications.



Is it comfortable to use for extended periods of time?

Although we don't show this in the videos, almost all examples can also be controlled by leaning your elbows on a table. Many scenarios, like web browsing, do not need your hands to be visible at all times and can be used very casually. Gesture-based control applies better to some applications than others. The whole point is to make things more fun and easy to use.



Why is there a delay in some of the examples?

Mgestyk continues to be optimized to meet the demands of specific games and applications. You can help us focus our efforts by voting on the poll on our front page.



Where/when can I try this out and how much will it cost?

We have set up a waiting list for those interested in ordering a Mgestyk Kit. The price is expected to be in the range of a high-end webcam. We will also have a booth at the 2009 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) from Thursday, January 8 through Sunday, January 11, 2009.



What are the system requirements?

Basic System Requirements (for Solitaire etc.)*

  • 200 MB free hard drive space
  • CD-ROM drive
  • DirectX 9 compatible display adapter
  • USB 2.0 port

Windows® XP

  • Pentium® 4 1.4 GHz or AMD Athlon™ 1 GHz processor (Pentium® 4 2.4 GHz recommended)
  • 256 MB RAM (512 MB recommended)

Windows Vista®

  • Pentium® 4 2.4 GHz (2.8 GHz recommended)
  • 512 MB RAM (1 GB recommended)

*Note: System Requirements may change over time as new features become available.



For what platforms is Mgestyk available?

Mgestyk is available for Windows XP and Windows Vista at this time. Other platforms may be supported in the future.