ThinkGeek's New Sonic Screwdriver is Quite Operational


Ever looked at a screwdriver and thought, "Ooh, this could be a little more sonic"? Well, Doctor Who fans are usually quite fond of the Doctor's most trusty tool, the Sonic Screwdriver. This space-age implement is a multi-purpose tool capable of a lot more than fastening or unfastening screws. Sadly, in real life, the versions that fans can actually purchase have functionality which is limited to acting as an accessory to a costume and, perhaps making sounds and/or lighting up.

ThinkGeek, working in partnership with The Wand Company and BBC Worldwide, has upped the ante with the Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote Control, and is showing off the fruit of their labor in Booth #3629 at San Diego's Comic-Con 2012.

A high-quality metal replica of the Mark VII Sonic Screwdriver currently used by the Eleventh Doctor, Matt Smith, the Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote Control is a gesture-based remote. Utilizing infrared (IR) technology, it is able to manipulate almost any home entertainment system – from TVs to iPod docks and beyond. Through the piece's advanced gesture recognition technology, wielders of this powerful tool can put the power of 39 commands in the palm of their hand.

"As well as being a universal remote control, the new Sonic Screwdriver will have a host of other great gadget features that we can't wait to tell everyone about at Comic-Con."
- Chris Barnardo, Co-founder of The Wand Company

The Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote Control works via a series of 13 short gestures, such as rotating, flicking, and tapping, similarly to the wands that are made by The Wand Company. However, the Sonic Screwdriver Universal Remote Control includes a guided set-up procedure which uses spoken prompts to match gestures to commands learned from your gadgets' remotes.

Those interested in viewing this unique collectable will be able to view and experience it at BBC America Booth #3629 during the duration of Comic-Con. ThinkGeek.com will begin collecting interest at the same time with sales launching on August 31, 2012.