InPlay and Azoteq Collaborate to Develop VR Controller Reference Design

BY Oliver Lester

InPlay Inc, a leading provider of advanced wireless connectivity SoCs for the virtual reality market, has announced a collaboration with Azoteq, a specialist in mixed-signal and sensor ICs, to develop a VR controller reference design that combines InPlay’s flagship SMULL (Synchronous Multi-node Ultra Low-Latency) SoC product, the IN618, with Azoteq’s ProxFusion® combination sensor, the IQS7222C.

The VR controller reference design will feature the latest advances in inductive sensing technology, which will enable precise and responsive control of virtual environments. The reference design will also provide robust and low-latency wireless data transfer solution, which will enhance the user experience. The IN618 SMULL SoC from InPlay is a powerful and highly integrated system-on-chip that includes an Arm Cortex-M4F CPU and a suite of sensor interfaces that enable seamless interaction with the virtual world.

The implementation of Azoteq’s inductive sensing technology overcomes reliability issues present in current triggers, mechanical buttons, and joystick solutions as demonstrated in this VR controller reference design. Azoteq’s inductive sensor technology is based on advanced inductive sensing techniques, which enable precise and accurate displacement measurement of an inductive coil and a metal target. The inductive sensor is highly configurable and can be optimized for different applications, including VR controllers, gaming controllers, and other human-machine interface devices.

“We are excited to be working with Azoteq on this VR controller reference design,” said Jason Wu, CEO of InPlay. “Their expertise in user-interface sensor technologies, combined with our leadership in SoC design and low latency wireless networking technology, will enable us to deliver a best-in-class solution for the VR market.”

“InPlay’s SMULL SoC, the IN618, is the ideal platform for our ProxFusion® combination sensor technology,” said Jean Viljoen, VP Marketing

at Azoteq. “Together, we can deliver a VR controller reference design that meets the demands of the growing VR market for high-precision, low-latency, and wireless connectivity.”

The collaboration between InPlay and Azoteq is expected to accelerate the adoption of VR technology by enabling manufacturers to quickly and easily develop high-quality VR controllers that deliver an immersive and seamless experience to users. The reference design will provide a starting point for manufacturers to create their own VR controllers using the SMULL SoC and ProxFusion® combination sensor technology.

InPlay and Azoteq are committed to delivering innovative solutions that enhance the user experience in the VR market. With this collaboration, they are setting a new standard for VR controllers that will help drive the growth of the VR industry and enable more people to enjoy the benefits of virtual reality technology.