Bang & Olufsen has always been driven by avant-garde designs, but its
latest concept for a remote control may be crossing the line from innovation to
science fiction. Apparently not satisfied with its previous efforts, no matter
how bizarre they may be already, B&O is contemplating a model that requires no physical contact to
operate. We're not kidding.
The aptly named TouchLess
was inspired by germaphobic trends that are increasingly influencing product development, leading the company's
design mavens to work on a device that would never be sullied by your
bacteria-infested mitts. "Designed primarily for kitchen use, the TouchLess can
control the cooker, washing machine, and boil a kettle from the comfort of your
armchair," T3 says, as well as command the media center with simple Louis
XIV-style wave of the hand. What's next for B&O R&D? A cloak of
invisibility, of course.