An “imaginary phone” using depth cameras that detect where you are pressing on your palm has been developed by researchers at Potsdam University in Germany.

It uses technology similar to that in Microsoft’s Kinect motion-sensing gaming system. The signal is sent to a computer that processes it and then sends the relevant command to your cellphone.

Users would probably use imaginary phones initially as a shortcut to operate physical phones in their pockets, the researchers said (answering calls still requires the physical device). The researchers envision integrating the camera into clothing, such as a brooch, pendant, or button of a shirt.

The researchers are now working replacing a TV remote control with an imaginary zapper.