Most virtual reality systems rely on optical sensors that transfer, say, hand movements into the virtual world. But common VR gloves are often too bulky for carrying out precise movements. An interdisciplinary project involving physicists from the Helmholtz Centre in Dresden, the IFW Dresden and the University of Linz has now succeeded in developing a thin, electronic magnetic sensor that is stuck directly onto the skin. This ‘electronic skin’ makes it possible to remotely control physical and virtual objects. The magnetic sensor creates an even closer connection between the virtual and real worlds and opens up new possibilities for use beyond online gaming, such as in medicine or the security industry.