GlideTV Introduces Navigator - first "Couch Mouse"
So you've built a fancy new HTPC, with a custom case that fits perfectly into your home theater setup, but without fail you're still using a wireless keyboard and mouse created with desktop use in mind. (Or maybe you're up on your gadget game and have a gyro mouse or use software like Boxee that only needs a remote.) There's something wrong with that picture and GlideTV has recognized the need for a custom mouse for couch surfers. GlideTV just announced what they are claiming to be the first "couch mouse" and it is dubbed the Navigator.
![GlideTV Navigator](https://turbo.paulstamatiou.com/uploads/2009/10/glidetv_navigator.jpg)
The GlideTV Navigator is much smaller than it looks. I was hoping it would be movie popcorn bucket sized.
![GlideTV Navigator](https://turbo.paulstamatiou.com/uploads/2009/10/glidetv_navigator_hand.jpg)
At an MSRP of 149 USD, the Navigator is priced well beyond even upper tier wireless keyboard and mouse combos. However, in the true nature of a compliant HID device, it is supported out of the box by Windows, OS X, PlayStation 3 as well as "any set-top box that supports standard mouse and keyboard HID devices." Thankfully that also implies Linux boxes as well as I know quite a few people with Linux-based HTPC setups.
![GlideTV Navigator Features](https://turbo.paulstamatiou.com/uploads/2009/10/glidetv_navigator_top.jpg)
The device is essentially a clickable touchpad boasting handy features for couch surfers such as one-thumb scrolling as well as standalone application buttons like Enter, Esc and Back. The Navigator also has backlit buttons for volume and playback functions, which is definitely a must for what I can imagine typical use would be — a dark room. However, some of the more interesting features — integrated search menu and an on-screen keyboard — rely on Windows-only software at the moment.
![GlideTV Navigator](https://turbo.paulstamatiou.com/uploads/2009/10/glidetv_navigator_bench.jpg)
GlideTV showcased the Navigator at CES 2009 where it won the Best of Innovations Award, so there's definitely something to be said about this first "couch mouse." That being said I truly think such a device needs to be larger instead of something prone to getting stuffed under couch cushions or being dropped easily while trying to hold a beer and nachos.
What do you think of the Navigator? Is this something you would be happy to add to your HTPC setup? What keyboard/mouse/remote combo do you have with your current HTPC setup? My current HTPC setup has a cheap tiny wired keyboard that I only use for administrative purposes, with everything else being controlled by a Logitech MX Revolution wireless mouse.