Vanna White reveals how a laser pointer changed her Wheel of Fortune role

After more than five decades on television, Wheel of Fortune continues to evolve with the times. While the show has seen major changes—including Ryan Seacrest stepping in as host following Pat Sajak’s retirement—one familiar face remains central to its identity: Vanna White. White, who has served as the show’s co-host and letter-turner since the early 1980s, recently opened up about how advances in technology have dramatically changed her role—most notably with the introduction of a laser-based system that means she no longer needs to touch the puzzle board at all.

From physical letters to touchscreens

Appearing on Elvis Duran and the Morning Show, White reflected on how her job has transformed over the decades. When she first joined Wheel of Fortune, she physically turned each letter on the board. That later evolved into tapping letters as the show modernized its set.

“First, I physically turned the letters. And then I went to touching the letters,” White explained. “Now, a couple of years ago, they changed the set where, honestly, I don’t even have to touch the letter.”

The update reflects broader shifts in television production, where digital displays and motion sensors have replaced mechanical elements that once defined classic game shows.

The surprise role of a laser pointer

The biggest surprise for fans was White’s revelation that a laser pointer now does most of the work. Instead of making contact with the board, she simply moves her hand near the letter she wants to reveal.

“There’s a laser up there,” she said. “And the motion of my hand that gets near the letter, it will light up.”

The system allows the show to maintain its familiar rhythm while reducing physical strain during long taping days, when multiple episodes are filmed back-to-back.

Technology brings convenience—and challenges

While White praised the innovation, she acknowledged that no technology is flawless. Motion sensors can occasionally misread movements, but she noted that errors have been rare. In fact, she recalled only turning the wrong letter once—and that happened back when the board was entirely manual. Her comments suggest that, despite occasional quirks, the new system has largely improved efficiency and comfort, especially after decades of repetitive motion.

A constant presence amid change

White’s remarks come at a time of transition for Wheel of Fortune. Seacrest’s arrival marked the end of an era following Sajak’s long-running tenure, yet the show’s core appeal remains intact. The familiar puzzle format, unpredictable contestant moments, and White’s steady presence continue to draw viewers. Even as the puzzle board evolves, White remains one of television’s most enduring figures, adapting seamlessly to each new iteration of the show.

What’s next for the puzzle board?

White joked that it’s impossible to predict how the board might change in the future—or whether the show could ever return to its old-school mechanics. For now, she seems content letting technology do the heavy lifting. As Wheel of Fortune enters the 2026 TV season, its ability to balance tradition with innovation appears key to its longevity. And with White still at the center, even a laser pointer feels like a natural next step in the game show’s evolution.