Japanese researcher Kazuhiro Taniguchi is developing a system that will let people run their iPods at the blink of an eye:
"Closing both eyes for one second starts an iPod, while blinking again stops the machine. A wink with the right eye makes the machine skip to the next tune while with a wink of the left eye it goes back."
The system, dubbed "Kome Kami Switch" or "Temple Switch," can distinguish quick, natural winks from deliberate winks, which is really cool. But what if users close their eyes to rest or as a result of something flying into their eyes?
If the developer(s) can somehow figure out a way to bypass these problems, the system can greatly improve enjoyment of music. I, for one, am tired of constantly having to pick up my iPod and change songs when I'm doing work or working out. In addition, the system can be adapted as a universal remote, which may be able to run cell phones, wheelchairs, television sets, air conditioners and other electronics. Although I don't see this happening in the immediate future, the remote control may be phased out eventually.
If it's successful, the system may make an impact on communication and society. No longer will winks be secret signals or come-ons; instead, they will be remote controls. So that hot guy across the bar winking, smiling and bobbing his head in your direction? He just switched to a great song on his iPod!
http://www.news.com.au/technology/story/0,25642,23312108-5014239,00.html
Tina Chu
No comments:
Post a Comment