📷 Image Credits: The Verge
A recent development in the tech industry has caught the attention of enthusiasts and insiders alike as a mystery ‘wireless device’ from Google has surfaced in the FCC documents. This device features the innovative 60GHz Soli radar technology, along with 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth connectivity, and a base plate, sparking speculations about its potential applications.
The Soli radar technology, co-developed by Google and Infineon Technologies, enables close-range perception tasks that allow devices to understand and respond to user gestures without physical contact. This technology has evolved over the years, with the first generation of Soli chips introduced in 2016 and subsequent iterations finding use in devices like the Pixel 4 and Nest Hub.
The device in question supports the 2.4GHz and 60GHz bands, hinting at a specific use case that does not require the broader capabilities of the 5GHz band. The presence of a base plate suggests that the device may be stationary and require a fixed power source, as no mention of batteries was made in the FCC filings.
While details from the FCC documents are limited, speculations about the device’s purpose abound. One prevailing theory is that it could be a new iteration of Google’s Nest smart thermostat, given its compatibility with the existing technology and the functional aspects of the device. Another possibility is that the device might be the anticipated Pixel Watch 3, considering the history of Soli technology in smartwatches.
The incorporation of Soli radar technology into this mysterious device underscores Google’s commitment to enhancing user interaction through non-contact means. The technology’s ability to detect fine movements and gestures without physical touch opens up new possibilities for device control and user experience.
From advanced gesture controls to precise motion sensing, the potential applications of Soli radar technology are vast and extend beyond consumer electronics. The integration of Soli into new devices not only showcases Google’s innovative approach but also promises to elevate convenience and sophistication in everyday technology interactions. As Google continues to push the boundaries of Soli radar’s capabilities, the future of user-device interaction is set to be revolutionized.