Jungo’s AI transform touch-based interfaces into touch-free

Israeli Jungo Connectivity has launched a new AI software, which can transform touch-based interfaces into interfaces controlled simply by the user’s voice commands and remote hand gestures, i.e., without touch. The software is based on image processing algorithms, which analyze the movement of the user’s hands and eyes, captured by a simple HD camera. Amidst the COVID-19 crisis and the need to maintain hygiene, Jungo’s aim is to help avoiding the need to touch the many touch-based interfaces so abundant these days in the public space, such as ATMs, cash-less payment machines and touch screens in offices and factories.

Today, Jungo is focused mainly in the automotive world. Its main product, the Co-Driver software, can detect if the driver has dozed off, not paying attention to the road, got distracted or not wearing a seat belt, etc., based on a visual analysis of the tillt of the head and the body posture, and the movements of his eyelids. Talking to TechTime, Jungo CEO, Ofir Herbst, explained that the new product is based on the same technology.

“The new software relies on the technologies we have developed for the automotive industry, though it opens up a new world of applications for us outside the automotive. There is no doubt that COVID-19 was the trigger for development, in order to provide an alternative solution for non-sterile public touch screens.”

Will COVID-19 Give the Market a Push?

The advantage of Jungo’s software, called MagiaTouch, is that it can be embedded into existing touch applications, without the need to change the code or the interface design, but by merely installing a simple HD camera and microphone. The software analyzes the user’s hand movements and translates it into on-screen commands as if he was moving a mouse or pressing keyboard keys.

Herbst reveals that Jungo is already conducting a pilot with a manufacturer of automated cash-less payment machines. “Manufacturers of automated cash-less payment machines for retail shops have run into a problem in the current circumstances, as those machines require touch. With our software you can still use those same machines but to avoid pressing the screen with your fingers.”

The market of gesture and voice control interfaces has been attempting to gain traction for several years by now, especially in the automotive sector where there is a safety-related need to control infotaiment system without having to use touch. However, in the fields of consumer electronics and smart homes, attempts to introduce such technologies have not yet been successful. Perhaps now, as a result of the need to maintain hygiene in the public sphere, this market will receive a significant boost. Indeed, according to a recent forecast by the research company Research & Markets, the market of non-contact interfaces is expected to grow in the coming years at an annual rate of 17.6% and reach $15.3 billion by 2025.