the InAir 3D TV interface by SeeSpace

InAir is a completely new way to experience TV viewing. It is an animated interface that uses the main TV screen, and the space between the screen and the viewer, to display web content. Internet content is blended seamlessly with TV content to add context, without having to juggle a second screen. Specifically, InAir comes in the form of a smart HDMI adaptor, which can be plugged into any existing TV and set-top-Box for the consumer to start enjoying the InAir experience.

The concept involves augmented technology that analyzes the content that the user is watching on TV, which then superimposes related content from the Internet over the existing picture. For those viewers with a 3D TV, the layers also appear to float in space in between them and their TV screens revealing a more interactive and intuitive TV experience. Therefore if someone is watching sports for examples, users could look up further information on where the event is taking place, information on the tracks or grounds and stats on the players all vastly enhancing their viewing experience. [1]

Recently launched at CES 2014, SeeSpace, the company that aims to revolutionize the way we engage with our televisions created InAir. According to the company’s description, SeeSpace is a technology company focused on reinventing the way we watch TV. Viewers want to watch TV in context and the audience wants more control. The InAir viewer interface puts the power back into the hands of the viewer.

An interesting point is that the company specifically states that a 3D capable TV is strictly optional, since InAir works with any existing TV, including the anticipated new 4k ultrHD. Content can be displayed entirely in a 2D format. Use of the 3D format is entirely optional. Check out the project’s Kickstarter campaign page here. However, when activated in 3D mode, the layers of Internet content appear to be positioned in front of the screen and can be dynamically manipulated by the viewer. These foreground layers of information appear to be holograms, and floating "in air" (and this is where the name came from).

Guessing that one of the key selling points will be exactly that “minority report” feature. As opposed to having to use a mouse or keyboard to navigate content, users have two options; they can either work the adapter through their Android or iOS mobile device using its screen as a track pad or take it to the next level by using gesture control via a Kinect or Leap device. [1] Apart from making this device highly futuristic, it may be a way of reviving the interest in 3D TV sets, which seems to has lost its momentum.

[1] Ref. http://www.psfk.com/2014/01/augmented-tv-interface-ces.html#!r32AO