Intangibles and Other Assets (Details 3) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Schedule of patents in process
Patents in process	$ 9,239	$ 8,448

The aggregate carrying amounts, as of the balance sheet date of assets representing capitalized external legal and filing fees associated with patents and trademarks up until the time a patent or trademark is granted. Upon granting of a patent or trademark, amortization commences, and the related costs are then no longer included in patents in process.

No definition available.

Name:	immr_PatentsInProcess
Namespace Prefix:	immr_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant