Wolfson Microelectronics is partnering with US-based Elliptic Labs to develop technology to make it possible to manipulate smartphones and tablets without touching them.

The technology uses sound waves to interpret movements. Wolfson audio chips will be used with Elliptic's system to provide a low-power version for electronic devices.

Wolfson's Andy Brannan said: "Along with voice control, touchless gesture control is fast becoming one of the next generation human-machine interfaces."