In response to COVID, everything from touchscreen systems to doorknobs and shopping cart handles are being reinvented and Germ Nerds is introducing a new finger protector to reduce cross-contamination. The germ defense tool called 'the nrd.' recognizes that there are many parts of the world can't quickly be updated to be completely contactless and people will still need to interact with certain surfaces outside of the home. The device has pockets for the index and middle finger, and magnetized ends for grabbing, pulling, opening and other actions.
The compact accessory itself is made from soft-touch, antimicrobial silicone, so it folds easily and can be sanitized with just as much ease. Like masks, these devices have the potential to become going out essentials, especially as they can be attached to bags and belt loops.
Image Credit: Germ Nerds
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Touchless Solutions
- The development of finger protector accessories highlights the trend of touchless solutions in response to COVID-19, presenting opportunities for businesses to innovate and create more contactless products and services.
- Antimicrobial Innovation
- The use of soft-touch, antimicrobial silicone in finger protector accessories showcases the trend of antimicrobial innovation, opening doors for companies to explore the development of similar materials and technologies in various industries.
- Everyday Protective Gear
- The potential for finger protector accessories to become essential items for going out reflects the trend of everyday protective gear, creating disruptive innovation opportunities for businesses to design and offer a wide range of protective accessories.
Where This Applies
- Healthcare
- The finger protector accessories can find applications in healthcare settings, such as hospitals and clinics, presenting a disruptive innovation opportunity for companies to create specialized protective products for healthcare professionals and patients.
- Retail
- The retail industry can explore the integration of finger protector accessories in shopping cart handles or touchscreens as a way to enhance hygiene and safety measures, leading to disruptive innovation in the shopping experience.
- Travel and Hospitality
- Within the travel and hospitality industry, the development of finger protector accessories can lead to disruptive innovation in hotel key card systems, touchless check-ins, and other interactions that require physical contact, promoting safer and more hygienic experiences.
