Sensor-based apps have potential but are hindered by fragmentation

Sensors are ubiquitous in mobile devices and they should inspire a world of innovative applications based on their special abilities to detect motion, touch, light and environmental conditions. But there is a serious gap between the capabilities sensors--ranging from an accelerometer, compass and gyroscope to optical sensors--can enable in devices today and the actual use of these components in mobile applications. In general, problems like lack of standard tools and fragmentation in how sensors are accessed and configured for use in devices make working with these features difficult for developers. Special feature