Rock 'n' Scroll is here to stay [user interface]

The article outlines the development of the Rock 'n' Scroll input method which lets users gesture to scroll, select, and command an application without resorting to buttons, touchscreens, spoken commands, or other input methods. The Rock'n' Scroll user interface shows how inertial sensors in handheld devices can provide additional function beyond "tilt-to-scroll". By also using them to recognize gestures, a significantly richer vocabulary for controlling the device is available that implements an electronic photo album, pager, or other limited function digital appliance without any additional input methods. The examples presented offer a glimpse at the freedom for both device designers and users inherent in devices that can be held in either hand, at any orientation, operated with mittens on, or not in the hand at all.