Mike Haigh, studio director of SCEE London, spoke to GDC attendees about the process involved in developing peripherals and their associated software applications.
"Development of a compelling experience is a little bit of a chicken and an egg," Haigh noted. "What came first? Hardware or software?
In the case of the EyeToy, both were inextricably intertwined.
"The technology that started off as filters led to all sorts of experiments and ideas," Haigh explained.
Marks approached numerous video camera manufacturers who were all quite hesitant to help - especially since Sony was known for making its own cameras, and these manufacturers may have thought the company could take their designs.
Eventually, a company called OmniVision saw the potential market for the product and was willing to take the risk.
Haigh detailed the patents filed by both Dr. Marks and OmniVision in an attempt to protect their IP and keep their competitive advantage.
"Just because a patent is granted, may not mean it is enforceable when it is challenged," he explained.
Once Sony had something it could work with, it had to make the business case for the project - not knowing how much it was going to cost, but knowing where they wanted it to be.
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Topic: GDC: Finding perceived value for peripherals (Read 200 times)