Hillcrest Labs Loop Pointer Motion-Controller Finally Launched

If it feels like a long time since you first saw the Hillcrest Labs Loop Pointer, that's because it has been.  We first spotted the motion-sensitive ring controller back in November 2006, but the company has only now released it for direct consumer purchase.  Your money gets you a wireless controller with four buttons and a scroll-wheel, that you tilt and gesture with to control your HTPC or presentation.

Initially intended as a concept device to showcase the company's motion-sensing technology, the production Loop will support adaptive tremor removal which apparently monitors each user's specific tremors and learns to ignore them.  The controller is roughly the size of a DVD and weighs 4.9oz; it's powered by two AA batteries, and has a range of up to 30 feet.

No specific drivers are required for PC or Mac, with the controller recognized as a standard mouse; all you need do is plug in the USB receiver.  It'll also work to navigate the PS3's menus and control the Kodak Theatre HD Player.  The Hillcrest Labs Loop Pointer is available now, with an MRSP of $99.