Sci/Tech Japan researchers testing tiny ear computer

[The Helper]

A tiny personal computer that is worn on the ear and can be controlled with the blink of an eye or the click of a tongue is being tested in Japan.

The 17-gram (0.59-ounce) wireless device has bluetooth capability and is equipped with a GPS, compass, gyro-sensor, battery, barometer, speaker and microphone.

Wearable computing is thought by many commentators to be the next big thing in technology, with products such as Google Glass at the forefront.

The device, known at the moment as the "Earclip-type Wearable PC" has a microchip and data storage, enabling users to load software, said engineer Kazuhiro Taniguchi of Hiroshima City University.

Its designs are based on traditional "ikebana" flower arrangements.

"We have made this with the basic idea that people will wear it in the same way they wear earrings," Taniguchi told AFP in a recent interview as he showcased a black prototype.

Japan researchers testing tiny ear computer

A tiny personal computer that is worn on the ear and can be controlled with the blink of an eye or the click of a tongue is being tested in Japan.

phys.org

 

[Accname]

I dont see how you would operate it.

 

[FireCat]

Crazy!

 

[The Helper]

I dont see how you would operate it.

RTFA!

 

[Accname]

I did, but its a joke.

can be controlled with the blink of an eye or the click of a tongue

Seriously? You want to replace a keyboard and a mouse with this?
So, how many different actions will this give you? 3? 4?
Interesting how you will control any useful software with this...

 

[Darthfett]

I did, but its a joke.

Seriously? You want to replace a keyboard and a mouse with this?
So, how many different actions will this give you? 3? 4?
Interesting how you will control any useful software with this...

RTFA!

You'll notice it makes no claim to the idea that it is intended to replace the keyboard and mouse. Have you ever considered that "wearable computing" is intended to supplement the traditional laptop/desktop computer, rather than replace it?

 

[Accname]

I know that, but still. What are you going to do with that thing?
What could it possibly do with such a limited number of user input capabilities?
Riddle me that.

 

[FireCat]

Don't forget "you can also wiggle your nose, to navigate it!"

Well, anyway.. People with disabilities, it might be a good thing.

 

[KaerfNomekop]

Well, anyway.. People with disabilities, it might be a good thing.

One of the times where FireCat is the more logical of two parties.

"This could connect you with a person who is looking at the same star at a remote place at the same time," enabling the people to swap impressions, Taniguchi said.

This is an interesting thought - the world just gets smaller and smaller.