Philips announces new technology designed to enhance gaming

Philips has announced the development of a new technology that's designed to enhance the gaming experience with the use of light, colour, sound, heat and even blasts of air.

The technology, amBX, incorporates a scripting language, software engine and architecture and provides a support framework for peripheral manufacturers to develop amBX-enabled products.

"Imagine the room of the future, where all electronic devices are amBX-enabled," reads a statement from Philips.

"The treacherous road to Saigon will turn your room jungle green, swimming with dolphins will splash it deep blue, Halo jumps will turn your fans on full, lightning storms will strobe your white lighting, and attack ships on fire off the shoulder of Orion will blast on your heaters."

Philips amBX chief marketing officer Jo Cooke commented: "For games creators this is a fantastic opportunity: amBX expands the immersive experience by bringing the real world environment into the gameplay."

"The creative possibilities, using this technology, for the games industry and beyond are immense."

Philips is currently in talks with developers and peripheral manufacturers and intends to launch amBX in May 2006.