When people ask you what a Facebook poke actually does, you can now answer that it transmits a signal for your coat to tap you on the shoulder. Jennifer Darmour created 'Ping' -- a social networking garment which keeps you connected to your friends off screen.
Using Lilypad and Lilypad Xbee with custom software to interface with Facebook, the social networking garment can send messages and update your status with simple gestures such as putting on and taking off the hood. When you receive a message, Ping will transmit a gentle tap on your shoulder. Tapping rhythms are customizable to different groups of friends.
Facebooking Frocks
Ping Garment Makes a Facebook Poke Physical
Trend Themes
1. Social Networking Garments - The creation of Ping demonstrates the potential for garments to connect people to their social networks in innovative ways.
2. Wearable Technology - Ping showcases the rise of wearable technology that allows for seamless integration between digital platforms and physical clothing.
3. Gesture-based Communication - The use of simple gestures to send messages and update statuses illustrates the trend of gesture-based communication systems.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry can explore opportunities to incorporate technology and social networking features into garments to enhance the user experience.
2. Technology - The technology industry can continue to develop and improve wearable technology that allows for seamless integration with social media platforms.
3. Communications - The communications industry can explore the potential of gesture-based communication systems as a new way for individuals to interact with their social networks.