Philips Electronics on Monday announced that it has signed up developers to support its new amBX technology, designed to provide a full sensory surround experience for gamers. Philips made the announcement at the Game Developers Conference in San Jose, Calif., and said it plans to formally roll out amBX in May.
Computer and console gamers looking for a full sensory experience have, thus far, largely been limited to surround sound audio and tactile feedback peripherals. Philips plans to go far beyond that with amBX by providing a framework to support light, color, sound, heat and even airflow during gameplay — thus creating what the company describes as an “Ambient Intelligent” environment.
amBX combines a scripting language, software engine and architecture, according to Philips. The company plans to produce a range of amBX-enabled peripherals, and purportedly has signed up other manufacturers as well.
amBX has practical applications beyond just games, though — Philips also hopes to see the technology used in music products, home entertainment systems, even in Web browsers.