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Video Messaging Cubes

inTouch from Shan Lin Keeps Overseas Students and Their Families Connected

— August 11, 2011 — Lifestyle
inTouch from Shan Lin is an interactive video messaging cube designed to help students overseas stay connected to their families back at home. The cube is inspired directly by video messaging applications such as Skype, but aims to be more interactive so as to build a more intimate connection between chatters.

Photos, statues and emoticons can all be updated from inTouch's touchscreen. To get in touch with loved ones, simply rock the cube back and forth to give them a call. If you don't feel like talking you can put the cube in the palm of your hand and shake it to leave them a message. inTouch also lets you set reminders to call people, a feature that any forgetful college student would love. You can check out several conceptual images of Shan Lin's inTouch here.
Trend Themes
1. Interactive Video Messaging - There is an opportunity for companies to create more interactive and immersive video messaging technology that targets the needs of a specific audience, such as overseas students and their families.
2. Interactive Remote Communication Devices - There is an opportunity for companies to develop more interactive communication devices like inTouch that enable people to connect with loved ones who are far away in a more immersive and personal way.
3. Multifunctional Communication Devices - There is an opportunity for companies to create multifunctional communication devices like inTouch that can be used for messaging, video calls, reminders, and more.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - Companies in the consumer electronics industry can explore the design and development of more interactive and immersive communication devices like inTouch.
2. Education - The education industry can incorporate interactive video messaging technology into their programs to improve remote learning experiences for students who are studying abroad.
3. Family Services - Companies offering family services can consider offering interactive video messaging technology like inTouch as a value-added service to improve family connections and relationships.
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