Here are two technologies that seem to be on a collision course (or even as linear predecessor and successor). The first, multi-touch track pads or screens (as featured on the newest generation of apple notebooks and the iPhone) that respond not only to “clicks” of a mouse, but also to human gestures on the given surface. This allows a more interactive and engaging experience. (View 1st video to the left)
Take this concept a step further and you have an interface that is responding based purely on gestures by removing the surface with which you come into contact.
g-speak overview 1828121108 from john underkoffler on Vimeo. (2nd video to the left)
The implications of the second seem to be profound. Most interestingly to me, is that while watching the demo of g-speak by oblong industries I thought to myself “I’ve seen this before… this isn’t new.” Well, not exactly. I had seen a similar technology, but it was in a movie.
One of the creators of g-speak served as a “science advisor” on the film Minority Report and based the interface in the movie on his research at MIT. From science fiction comes science fact.
While there are differing opinions on what technology has in store for us, (and not to be corny) I continue to be inspired in a positive way by the idea that we are living the lofty dreams of yore. However, do we as designers and communicators possess the ability, as scientist do, to conjure a future according to our vision?
Interesting post.
“However, do we as designers and communicators possess the ability, as scientist do, to conjure a future according to our vision?” Hopefully we can.