Extending the technology acceptance model in remote pointing technology: identifying the role of perceived mobility and control

Purpose - Despite the increasing popularity and interest in remote pointing devices such as Wii remote controllers, there have been few studies that find and evaluate the users' psychological aspects of technology acceptance. This study uses the technology acceptance model (TAM) framework with the two external variables of perceived mobility and control. Design/methodology/approach - The authors conducted an experiment with 409 participants to test the research model and employed structural equation modelling as the analysis method. Findings - The results show that perceived mobility and control were significant determinants of perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. Moreover, perceived usefulness is significantly influenced by perceived ease of use and, further, perceived usefulness and ease of use played a significant role in affecting the attitude towards the technology. Finally, the results also reveal that attitude and perceived usefulness positively influence the intention to use the remote pointing device. Originality/value - This paper is of value to researchers, engineers and designers designing and developing remote pointing technologies and their devices for use in our society.