The Korea Herald

지나쌤

Samsung showcases eye-tracking mouse for disabled

By KH디지털2

Published : Nov. 25, 2014 - 11:33

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South Korea's tech giant Samsung Electronics Co. on Tuesday showcased a mouse for disabled people that tracks the movements of the eyes.
  

 Dubbed EYECAN+, the device allows users to type and perform other functions just by using their eyes. It is an upgraded version of Samsung's previous eye-tracking mouse that had to be worn like glasses.
   
"EYECAN+ requires the user to be situated between 60cm and 70cm from the monitor, and does not require the user to be in any specific position, as it can be used while seated or lying down,"
Samsung said. "Calibration is only required for first-time users, as EYECAN+ will remember each user's eye characteristics."
  
Users can move the cursor on the screen through the movement of their eyes, and scroll or click by staring at a specific folder or link for a moment.
   
"EYECAN+ is the result of a voluntary project initiated by our engineers, and reflects their passion and commitment to engage more people in our community," a Samsung official said.
   
The company added it will not commercialize the product, but only produce a limited quantity for donation.
   
Starting next year, Samsung will start providing some 100 units of EYECAN+ to charities, and open hardware and software technologies related to the device to venture firms to promote the further development of the sector.
   
It will also provide education programs and maintenance services related to the new product.
   
Samsung rolled out the first edition of the mouse in 2011 on the back of ideas gathered from ordinary staff. The device could be produced for 50,000 won (US$44.92) each, hovering far below the price tag of 10 million won for other similar devices currently being sold on the market. (Yonhap)