Exploration of the smartphone as an input device for manipulating 3D space

The emerging capabilities of smartphones are fuelling a rise in the use of mobile phones as input devices. The complexity of 3D object manipulation has become a challenge for traditional input. Sensors and interaction methods available in a modern smartphone may turn it into an interactive input device for manipulation of 3D objects. This study investigates the usability of a smartphone as an input device for 3D, and also explores its potential as an optimal input method for manipulating 3D space. As such, usability study requirements are formulated, and prototype 3D software with defined tasks developed, to aid in the usability studies. User satisfaction is investigated for each defined task, with the aim to explore optimal interaction methods for different approaches in manipulating 3D objects.