Apple Hints at Wii-Inspired Remote

In a recent patent filing, Apple has again revealed their idea for a Wiimote-like controller for the Apple TV.  As reported by Endgadget, this patent shows a “remote wand” being used to control everything on the Apple TV.  The remote would not have any buttons, and it would be twisted and turned to flip through music, rotate pictures, or control the cursor on the screen.

This new patent application mirrors a similar one filed in November 2006.  That application also saw a Wiimote-like remote which had a similar accelerometer and positioning setup to the Wii system.  But unlike the most recent patent, this remote idea included some buttons and controls.

However, because Apple seems to patent almost any idea that comes to mind, there is a chance that this type of remote may never see the light of day.  But, I’m sure those Apple and Nintendo fans wish this idea will eventually come to fruition.