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Virtual Girlfriends

INBED: Never Sleep Alone

— May 15, 2008 — Naughty
Consumed with his graduate school program and motivated by a loneliness I can totally identify with, New York University student Drew Burrows showcased INBED, an "infrared-sensitive" light projected virtual girlfriend, at NYU's Interactive Telecommunications Program Spring Show at Tisch School of the Arts.

So what is it exactly? It's a single mattress with an attractive brunette who is perfectly quiet. So far sounds like a good girlfriend! Once you sit or lie down on the mattress, she will respond to your every move.

New York Magazine explains, "Lie on your back, she snuggles up right next to you in a log position. Curl up in the fetal position, she spoons. The only hitch: She's 2-D. "Yeah, you can't feel the girl. That's the thing," Burrows explained as he demonstrated his invention, an "infrared sensitive" light projection (meaning it reacts, and the projected woman moves, based on an infrared sensor) called INBED. "Still, it's so nice if you're tired and worn out to have someone to curl up with."

While it's not a replacement for a real girlfriend, it's better than being in an empty bed, especially if you can program the girl to look like someone you want (creepy?).
Trend Themes
1. Infrared-sensitive Projection - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop advanced infrared sensors and projection technology to create immersive virtual experiences.
2. Virtual Companions - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create customizable virtual companions with advanced AI capabilities to provide emotional support and companionship.
3. Interactive Furniture - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Design interactive furniture that responds to user movements and preferences for enhanced comfort and personalization.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Merge cutting-edge technologies like AI, sensors, and projection systems to create new virtual experiences and applications.
2. Entertainment - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop interactive entertainment products and experiences that blur the line between reality and virtuality.
3. Furniture - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate smart technologies into furniture designs to create interactive and personalized living spaces.
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