First Details Emerge About Nintendo’s “Quality of Life” Device

There has been a great deal of contrasting theories regarding Nintendo’s “Quality of Life” device and its possible relation to the Codename NX project. Recently, a NeoGAF user stumbled upon Nintendo’s WIPO Patent Application WO/2015/107747 which includes schematics about the Quality of Life programme. Unfortunately, the text is in Japanese, so it’s difficult to deduce the technical information within the patent application. However, the diagrams provide a general synopsis of the device’s functionality.

In its most basic form, the Quality of Life device appears to fixate on fitness and trying to improve the user’s overall health. The dock contains sensors to relay information between a number of accessories including a Wii Balance board. Supposedly, the docking station can detect the user’s emotional state through an integrated microphone or webcam. I would also presume that the unit detects movement and begins operating as you enter a room.

The second image suggests the inclusion of a projector designed to gauge an individual’s tiredness. For example, a sensor is used to determine the user’s pulse rate and engagement in mental activities. This projector displays an image onto the ceiling and can be adjusted using a remote control. It’s still unknown what type of image will be displayed but perhaps it’s designed to help people with disturbed sleep patterns. However, it might be a way to save power during a form of entertainment and realize when the end user is asleep.

Finally, a terminal system collates information about each person’s health and sets targets to improve their well-being. Perhaps, the device measures your fat %, weight, heart rate, and other vital aspects. That would make sense given the image appears to show the Wii Fit board being an integral part of the experience.

Whatever the Quality of Life device entails, it’s a major change from Nintendo’s gaming focused market. Perhaps, Satoru Iwata’s poor health and eventual demise made his team reconsider their priorities and try to help extend people’s lives. Traditional fitness is quite boring and engaging people in a new, visual manner to improve their lifestyle could make such a profound difference.

Thank you Nintendo Life for providing us with this information.