The PlayStation 3’s wand-like motion-sensing controller will hit the UK this autumn, slightly later than originally planned, Sony has confirmed.

Sony said it has delayed the motion controller’s launch to ensure that an “extensive” line-up of compatible games are available when the device finally hits the shops.

Sony still hasn't come up with a go-to-market name yet, at least not one it's willing to make public. "Motion Controller" is described as a "tentative name".

The controller – first seen at the E3 gaming conference in June 2009 - will ship globally this autumn, Sony said.

The motion controller works in conjunction with Sony’s PlayStation Eye camera add-on to optically detect “the natural and intuitive movement of the hand” and translate it into in-game movement.

Essentially a wireless wand topped with a colour-changing orb, the motion controller also features a analogue trigger and other control buttons.

Sony's motion controller will go head-to-head with the Xbox 360’s 'Project Natal' controller-less motion-sensing peripheral, set to launch in November. Both add-ons are attempting to improve on the motion control that's at the heart of Nintendo's hugely popular Wii. ®