GestureTek announced that Microsoft has licensed its video gesture-control technology for use with the Xbox Live Vision camera for Xbox 360. In front of a camera, gamers will be able to use full-body gestures to move their real-time image in a game. Gamers will also be able to use gesture technology on Xbox Live. For example, a gamer can play poker face-to-face on Xbox Live -- or move left or right to steer a snowboard down a mountain in a videogame.
At E3, Razer, a videogame-peripheral maker known for its mice, is showing off its new Barracuda Integrated Audio System, the Tarantula gaming keyboard and the acid-green Diamondback mouse. The Barracuda AC-1 audio chip features 3D, 720-degree positional audio for more realistic game sounds.
The Tarantula keyboard possesses 'Hyperesponse' technology to reduce key latency. It also includes microphone and headphone jacks, two USB ports and 95 programmable keys. The company did not give a date when their new gear will be available.
eMagin Corporation is showing off enhancements for its Z800 3DVisor at the E3 Expo in Los Angeles. The 3DVisor delivers the virtual-image equivalent of a 105-inch screen viewed from a distance of 4m. Its 360-degree viewing area allows gamers to look around and move in the virtual world much as they do in the real world. The visor also contains an audio system with stereo earbuds and a noise-cancelling microphone.
At E3, Ageia Technologies announced that its Ageia PhysX accelerator cards are now available worldwide. The company also gained support from several game developers for its Ageia PhysX processor. Ageia claims its technology will create more exciting explosions, more lifelike character motion and spectacular new weapons. The accelerator cards cost about $300 (£160).
Saitek takes off with new pedal controls for flight simulators. The Pro Flight Rudder Pedals enables foot control of the rudder function. They will retail for $130 (£70) and are scheduled to become available in July.
Saitek announced a new Eclipse II keyboard, which will come in three backlit colours -- red, purple and blue. The keyboard, available beginning in June for $70 (£37), features media controls, angle adjustment and a dimmer for the lights.
For racing at home, Logitech introduced the G25 Racing Wheel at E3. The system includes a six-speed gear shift and clutch pedal, two force-feedback motors, a 280mm wheel and a full 900 degrees of rotation. Logitech says the second motor makes directional forces more realistic, letting indoor drivers feel everything from the banks in the road to impact with walls or other cars. The system is expected to be available in October for $300 (£160).
Logitech's G25 Racing Wheel includes a six-speed gear shift system with a push-down reverse gear. Gamers will be able to skip gears to slow down or accelerate in and out of turns. Logitech says the gadget will be compatible with newer games for PCs and the PlayStation 2.
JBL releases On Tour Plus, a portable speaker system that weighs less than half a kilo and is small enough to fit into a backpack, briefcase or handbag. The device can be used with most portable consoles, including the Sony PSP (pictured). It will retail for $130 (£70).
Logitech offers a new tool for extreme gamers, the G3 Laser Mouse. The ambidextrous mouse has 2000 dpi laser precision, uses USB and processes 6.4 megapixels of images per second. It is scheduled for August and will cost $60 (£32).
Logitech on Tuesday unveiled its first licensed wheel for the Xbox 360, the DriveFX Wheel. The system features axial-feedback technology -- a motor built into the steering column to let the driver 'feel' the road and crashes. The wheel will be available in July for $100 (£53).
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