BT has developed a new device for laptops that eliminates the need for a keyboard or mouse.

Using Nintendo Wii-style technology, the BT Balance adaptor allows users to tilt or move their machine to manipulate menus and applications.

The adaptor 'talks' to software downloaded to the laptop or tablet PC and translates motion and rotations of the computer into actions on the screen, such as moving a cursor around the screen or turning pages of a virtual manual.

Adam Oliver, head of age and disability research and who developed the concept, said: "The technology has obvious implications for those who are disabled or elderly and have difficulty using a fiddly laptop keyboard or mouse."

The company wanted to produce an interface that was "simple and intuitive" and created the feel of picking up a book and reading it in 3D format. Oliver said they then realized it could have other commercial applications -- helping those with arthritis, or those using a laptop in confined conditions where it's difficult to manipulate the keyboard.