The Rapport Empathetic User Interface might just impress you more than iPods did when they first came out. This sound system actually engages with you as you do with it. It does not operate by the usual method of manual input.
Developed by Yifei Chai, Joe Smith, Yuchang Chow and Yeawon Choi, this smart stereo activates automatically when you approach it. A camera and sensors analyze your facial expression and choose a song that seems fitting for your apparent attitude. Gestural feedback in the form of smiles, frowns, nods and head shakes tells the Rapport whether or not the current track is appreciated. The musical robotic mechanism creates a playlist just for you, and it switches off when you leave its presence.
Mood-Interpreting Music Players
Rapport Empathetic User Interface Functions with Facial Feedback
Trend Themes
1. Emotion-responsive Music Players - Entrepreneurs could develop personalized music players that detect users' emotions through technology like facial recognition and create playlists that respond accordingly.
2. Smart Stereo Systems - Tech companies could create AI-powered sound systems that analyze user feedback and adapt accordingly, providing a more interactive and customized listening experience.
3. Gesture-based Music Interfaces - Innovators could create music interfaces that respond to user gestures, such as smiles, frowns, nods, and head shakes, to create playlists and tailor the listening experience to individual preferences.
Industry Implications
1. Audio Technology - Companies in the audio technology industry could develop mood-interpreting sound systems to differentiate themselves from competitors and offer more value to customers.
2. Consumer Electronics - Entrepreneurs in the consumer electronics industry could create emotion-responsive devices that engage with users and provide a unique user experience.
3. Artificial Intelligence - Startups in the AI industry could leverage facial recognition and other technologies to develop interfaces that respond to users' emotions, preferences, and behaviors.