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The Pixel 4 was arguably one of the worst phones Pixel phones, thanks in part due to the company’s poor implementation of the hands-free gestures and all the gimmicks surrounding it. However, it looks like Xiaomi might be working on a new solution that brings back the concept of hands-free gestures.
As reported by MIUI Polska writer Kacper Skrzypek, Xiaomi is currently developing a tablet equipped with a 3D Time of Flight (ToF) camera, which would enable hands-free gestures such as automatically locking the tablet when the sensor detects that the user has walked away. Additionally, it would allow users to manage tasks such as media playback, volume adjustment, track skipping, page-turning, and even answering or ending phone calls.
However, unlike the Pixel 4, which faced regulatory issues in many countries due to its reliance on the Soli radar chip, Xiaomi’s approach utilizes an optical system. This approach would enable users to control the tablet by placing their hands approximately 15 to 40 centimetres away from the screen, using gestures designed for Xiaomi’s MIUI interface.
Furthermore, Skrzypek also found references to a “Hover” or “Flex” mode for an upcoming device, which would allow users to partially fold the device and control it using gestures. This suggests that the upcoming Mix Fold 3 could feature a free-stop hinge, thus significantly improving upon previous models.
It all depends on the implementation
While this development is undoubtedly intriguing as it would provide a new way for people to interact with their devices, its success will depend on two things: the effectiveness of the technology and whether users will find air gestures preferable to touchscreen interaction. This is because the Pixel 4 also promised similar features but failed to deliver when users discovered the limitations of these gestures. Therefore, Xiaomi will need to address these concerns and demonstrate substantial improvements in accuracy, responsiveness, and user experience to regain users’ trust and persuade them to use hands-free gestures in their everyday lives.
