Philips to demo Entertaible at IFA

Philips is ready to put the funk back into Internationale Funkausstellung, where at this year's consumer electronics show in Berlin (Sept. 1 - 6), it'll show off the Entertaible just like it did back at CES. This electronic tabletop game combines more traditional board games (which we do love, by the by) with games of the electronic variety, so you and your loved one can duke it out across the world over the internet. However, while this newfangled table was merely a prototype back at CES, the Entertaible seems like it's on its way to becoming a full-fledged product, but still no info on Philips' timetable or price at this point. One more thing, though -- we're mystified by this part of Philips' press release: "The use of physical objects like pawns and bats to directly manipulate the virtual world enhances the sense of magic." Bats? Magic? We know the Netherlands didn't do so well in the World Baseball Classic, but c'mon guys, that's no reason to provide tools for people to beat each other up with, y'know?

[Jim @ Aug 30th 2006 1:32PM]

Call me when I can play that holo-chess game featured in Star Wars. "Let the Wookie win."

[USELESS @ Aug 30th 2006 1:59PM]

this shit is totally useless.

[dtrenz @ Aug 30th 2006 2:33PM]

The real question is how soon can I get one of these fitted with midi, á la JazzMutant Lemur.

"Useless?"

I beg to differ.

[lee @ Aug 30th 2006 2:34PM]

Kinda reminds me of the table from "The Island." Actually, I wouldnt mind that at all. Combine a touch sensing glass surface/table with a monitor, and I think that would be quite a nice mix. Imagine opening up Word and your keyboard appears right under your fingers...

[dtrenz @ Aug 30th 2006 2:48PM]

I think that using a device like this for a virtual keyboard is a mistake.

Keyboards need to be tactile. Just look at any of those silly devices that project a keyboard on to a surface. They are too hard to use.

We should think of new ways to input and interface using this kind of tech.

[tekdroid @ Aug 30th 2006 7:26PM]

Philips management decision-making:
---
1) Sell off chip production because of possible downturn in market. Get out while the going's good. Check.
2) Find buyer for Philips stake of LG-Philips joint venture. Check.
3) Make Entertaible. Check.