The Affinity Bracelet by Spanish designer Andreu Escrivà is an attempt to bridge social gaps.
The design made the short list for the 2014 Undesign Awards, a competition that challenges designers to unlearn design conventions and conceptualize something original. LELO CEO Miroslav Slavic elaborates by saying, "Technology is developed to empower and unify us. But it’s doing just the opposite. It’s time to get closer again."
The affinity bracelet offers strangers the opportunity to meet and get to know each other based on their personal and professional interests. Users simply enter their information via computer, and the data is then communicated to nearby wearers. If these users happen to intersect on the street, the bracelet vibrates, letting both parties know the other's name, hobbies and the shared affinity percentage of the union. Cue the magic of friendship.
Friendship Encountering Bracelets
The Affinity Bracelet is an Unorthodox Way to Make New Friends
Trend Themes
1. Friendship-encountering Bracelets - The Affinity Bracelet offers a unique way for strangers to connect and form new friendships based on shared interests.
2. Unconventional Design - The Affinity Bracelet challenges traditional design conventions, opening up opportunities for innovative and original concepts.
3. Technology and Social Unity - The Affinity Bracelet highlights the potential of technology to bring people closer together and counteract social disconnection.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion and Accessories - The Affinity Bracelet introduces a new category of wearable accessories that facilitate social connections.
2. Personal Networking - The Affinity Bracelet creates opportunities for personal networking and relationship building based on shared interests.
3. Community and Connectivity - The Affinity Bracelet taps into the market of products and technologies that foster community engagement and strengthen social connections.