Embodiments of apparatus and methods for detecting gestures are described. In embodiments, an apparatus may include a transmitter-receiver electrode arrangement to generate an electric field projecting beyond a side of a computing device, so that changes to the electric field caused by user gestures on or near the outer surface of the side may be sensed. The transmitter-receiver electrode arrangement may include at least a transmitter and a receiver that are different, but complementary in geometry and disposition, disposed relative to an inner surface of the side of the computing device. Moreover, a capacitive sensor may be disposed in the computing device to output electrical signals indicative of changes to the electric field sensed. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.