20091020

Zeemote Unveils the JS1 Controller


At the Mobile World Congress, Zeemote has announced Zeemote JS1, a wireless controller that enables console-like game play on mobile phones.

Zeemote, creator of intuitive user interface technologies, has announced Zeemote JS1, a wireless controller that enables console-like game play on mobile phones.

Created by the team that gave us the first force feedback joystick for PC gaming, the Zeemote JSI controller offers freedom from the limitations of the mobile phone keypad, providing the comfortable and intuitive interaction of an analog joystick.

Measuring a snug 95 x 35 x 20mm and weighing 47g, the Zeemote JS1 controller has a thumbstick and four assignable trigger buttons. It offers real analogue control, enabling users to engage with mobile games.

According to Mike Yuen, senior director (Gaming Group) of Qualcomm, the Zeemote JS1 is one of the most innovative devices to come along for mobile gaming, as it greatly helps improve game playability on mobile phones versus traditional d-pads.

The controller has a wireless remote technology that interacts with mobile phones in as natural a way as a mouse does with a conventional PC. It communicates with mobile phones via Bluetooth.

According to Zeemote, the technology platform has been validated for use on a wide range of phones from major manufacturers like Motorola, Nokia, Samsung, Sony Ericson, and LG.

Some of the major game developers and publishers including Eidos, Finblade, Fishlabs, and SEGA of America, have already adapted popular games such as Lara Croft Tomb Raider, Helistrike 3D, and Sonic The Hedgehog to utilize this new technology.

Finblade has even created Fireworks, the first two-player game specifically designed for use with the Zeemote JS1 controller. The company has not yet decided on a price for the device. They plan to bundle the controller with games and new high-end phones; and start mass production in May.