It may seem like science fiction, but the science that will allow people to interact with cameras and computers using just their hands is on its way. Because of a new type of image sensor, consumers may start to see a new way to interact with these electronics.

These image sensors, due on the market within five years, have light sensitive computer chips within them. Traditional sensors see and then record flat, 2-D images. These new sensors will be able to see in three dimensions. It will help cameras to record not just what the image looks like but also the distance from the camera. These may be used to track movements and to see images in 3D no matter what is being looked at.