Thanks to Orna Berry, a venture capitalist friend of ours, we were given a peek into a private whisper suite of a start-up called PrimeSense.

PrimeSense is making possible a 3D (webcam-size) camera that captures 2D+ depth data in realtime.  Using the depth map, they can create real-time keys and mats that allow for the removal of the background.

The depth map creates all kinds of opportunities for new applications.  PrimeSense has made a smart business model decision to be a fab-less semiconductor company and to work with major OEMs to create and market the hardware, while working with creative and software companies to build applications and games on top of their software.  They’re currently working with developers and have major companies that are already developing games and other products based on their technology.

They showed us a few sample applications:

• A remote-less media interface that allows you to navigate and control media selection, playback, volume, etc. using only your hands…

• Controlling a preexisting game without modifying the game – in this case, Adi Berenson of Prime Sense is playing a game similar to Dance Dance Revolution, and the camera is watching his movements and mapping them to what the game thinks are keystrokes.  It’s like Wii without the need for the controller…

• They also showed demonstrations of a touch-less touch screen interface for digital signage.  

Their strategy is a good one – add value on underlying technology – chips and software/SDK – and let the CE tech giants with distribution in place and the content developers do what they do best. 

PrimeSense is a company to watch.  Look for their stuff out of the whisper suites and on to the floor in the future.