MIT Wearable Gadget Gives You Sixth Sense, a la Minority Report
MIT Media Lab researchers have cooked up Sixth Sense, a wearable computing device that turns any surface into a Web interface, augmenting the five senses we've been given naturally. Want to organize photos or use a map that's on your hand, anyone?
Check the time. Who needs a Rolex? Mistry says with Sixth Sense all you have to do is draw a circle on your wrist to get a virtual watch that gives you the correct time.
Get product information. Maes says Sixth Sense uses image recognition or marker technology to recognize products you pick up, then feeds you information on those products. For example, if you're trying to shop "green" and are looking for paper towels with the least amount of bleach in them, the system will scan the product you pick up off the shelf and give you guidance on whether this product is a good choice for you. Similarly, if you pick up a book, the system can project Amazon ratings on that book, as well as reviews and other relevant information.
Feed you information on people. The team says Sixth Sense also is capable of "a more controversial use": when people are standing with you, projecting relevant information such as what they do, where they work, and so on.
Mistry sees huge potential for Sixth Sense, including gaming applications that allow gamers to take their fun outside and better interact with the physical world. He's also excited about its potential use of translating a deaf person's sign language into audio and other ways to enhance abilities.
Sixth Sense was first shown at Ted. Play video to see the demonstration.
