Tobii Brings Gaze Interaction for Tablet Control
Author: Tobii ATI
Published: 2013/09/19 - Updated: 2026/01/28
Publication Type: Product Release, Update
Category Topic: Electronics - Software - Related Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates
Synopsis: This product represents an assistive technology breakthrough that makes tablet computing accessible through eye-tracking capabilities. The Tobii EyeMobile system combines a compact eye tracker with a mounting bracket that attaches to Windows 8 tablets, enabling people with conditions like ALS, cerebral palsy, Rett syndrome, and spinal cord injuries to navigate devices using only their eyes. This information is authoritative because it comes directly from Tobii Technology, the manufacturer and global market leader in eye-tracking solutions, and describes a commercially available product that addresses a real access barrier for people with severe mobility limitations. The technology translates standard touch gestures into eye-controlled commands, providing full access to Windows 8 applications and even functioning as a supplementary communication device for those who cannot speak - Disabled World (DW).
- Definition: Tobii Eye-tracking
Tobii eye-tracking refers to technology developed by Swedish company Tobii Technology that uses infrared sensors and cameras to detect where a person is looking on a screen, translating eye movements into computer commands. The system works by projecting near-infrared light toward the user's eyes and capturing the reflection patterns from the cornea and pupil, which sophisticated algorithms then process to determine precise gaze direction and focus points. Originally developed for research and usability testing, Tobii expanded their technology into assistive applications where it serves as a crucial access method for people who cannot use traditional input devices like keyboards or mice due to conditions affecting motor control. The technology has proven particularly valuable for individuals with ALS, cerebral palsy, and other conditions that limit physical movement, as it requires only the ability to move one's eyes - often the last voluntary muscle control retained in progressive neuromuscular diseases. Tobii's systems range from portable eye trackers that attach to standard computers and tablets to purpose-built communication devices with integrated eye-tracking hardware, all designed to recognize even subtle eye movements and translate them into actions like selecting buttons, typing messages, or controlling cursor movement with reasonable accuracy and minimal calibration.
Introduction
Tobii Technology, the global market leader in eye tracking and Gaze Interaction, announced today the launch of Tobii EyeMobile - a lightweight, highly portable peripheral that brings true eye-control capabilities to popular Windows 8 tablets, including the Microsoft Surface and Dell Latitude 10, for assistive purposes. Tobii EyeMobile puts individuals with physical and communication impairments at the forefront of consumer technology, allowing them to navigate and control modern, off-the-shelf Windows 8 tablets with the simple, natural and relaxed movement of their eyes.
Main Content
The Tobii EyeMobile was designed to provide individuals with ALS, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, Rett syndrome and other demobilizing conditions with hands-free access to the full functionality of Windows 8 tablet devices, allowing them to live richer, more independent and fulfilled lives. The nature of tablets combined with the eye-tracking capabilities of EyeMobile will allow users to enjoy full tablet functionality while traveling or while in bed or in the classroom. The device is easily mounted to a wheelchair or can be fitted to whatever situation best suits the individual user's needs.
Composed of the groundbreaking, compact Tobii PCEye Go eye tracker and the multi-functional EyeMobile mounting bracket for tablet connectivity, the Tobii EyeMobile is a truly innovative, mobile computer access solution. Built around Microsoft's new touch-centric interface for Windows 8, the necessary touch gestures, click types and sideswipes have been cleverly translated into actionable commands using only eye gaze.
"At Tobii, we believe Internet access is a human right, and physical disabilities shouldn't impede that pursuit," said Oscar Werner, executive vice president of assistive technology at Tobii. "EyeMobile extends the Tobii experience to popular tablets, enabling anyone with a physical disability to enjoy full Internet and computer access regardless of location or environment."
In addition to providing access to tablet devices and over 100,000 Windows 8 applications, Tobii EyeMobile can also act as a supplementary augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device that allows users with communication challenges to generate speech via Gaze Interaction.
AAC users will be able to use EyeMobile as a secondary voice output device where they normally wouldn't take their speech-generating device, or they can mount it stably to a wheelchair or bedside and use it for primary voice output. EyeMobile rounds out Tobii's range of communication devices, including the purpose-built speech-generating device, the Tobii I-Series, which was announced earlier this year.
Tobii worked closely with leading Windows tablet manufacturers, including Microsoft and Dell, to develop a solution that complemented popular devices already available or owned by consumers. The accompanying EyeMobile software, Tobii Gaze Selection and its Windows 8 Function Overlay, were designed to mirror all necessary functions of Windows 8 originally designed for touch - such as swiping, tapping and scrolling - using your eyes only, providing a natural and intuitive user experience.
"Tobii's eye- controlled Windows 8 interface is incredibly innovative and provides a glimpse into the future of more natural digital experiences," said Rob Sinclair, chief accessibility officer at Microsoft. "Gaze Interaction presents an opportunity to enhance the way we use devices to work, play and communicate."
Tobii EyeMobile is available for purchase today via the Tobii web-shop.
Insights, Analysis, and Developments
Editorial Note: The introduction of eye-tracking technology to mainstream consumer tablets marked a significant shift in how assistive technology developers approached accessibility - rather than creating separate specialized devices, they adapted existing popular technology that people already owned or wanted to use. This approach not only reduced costs but also helped users stay current with mainstream technology trends, whether for work, education, or staying connected with family and friends. While the Windows 8 platform has since evolved, the underlying principle remains relevant: the best assistive solutions often work with devices people already use, making independence and connection more achievable in everyday environments from classrooms to bedrooms to community spaces - Disabled World (DW).Attribution/Source(s): This quality-reviewed publication was selected for publishing by the editors of Disabled World (DW) due to its relevance to the disability community. Originally authored by Tobii ATI and published on 2013/09/19, this content may have been edited for style, clarity, or brevity.