Most developers are aware that Microsoft’s upcoming Windows 8 operating system will include additional sensor support, and will feature new hardware sensors and make it easier for developers to target and use the sensor technology with Metro Style apps. Along with sensor support, Microsoft is adding automatic screen rotation, adaptive brightness and compass support.
The sensor functionality will come from additional types of sensors that are used to support the new features, including an accelerometer, ambient light sensor, magnetometer and gyroscope. Sensor support of this type can already be found in both the Android and iOS operating systems, but this week Microsoft’s own “sensor fusion” support for Windows 8 was revealed–and it provides developers with a way to use each sensor’s power to strengthen individual implementations.