The LumiWatch is a new prototype from researchers at Carnegie Mellon University that has the potential to drastically improve smartwatch interfaces as they exist today. The clever watch uses an embedded projector to cast a light-based touchscreen interface directly onto the wearer's forearm.
One of the biggest issues with smartwatches is size. Watch screens can only be so big given the available real estate on one's wrist, meaning that any remotely usable interface requires an embarrassingly massive watch — and even those behemoths of tech bling are often too small to do anything practical. With the LumiWatch's projected touchscreen, users can dramatically increase the utility of their smartwatches.
To be sure, the current model is a prototype, but its functions are impressive nonetheless. The researchers have coded in an unlocking function as well as a basic interface for selecting from apps like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Image Credit: <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.robertxiao.ca/research/lumiwatch/">Robert Xiao</a>
What's Driving This Trend
- Projected Arm-based Interfaces
- The LumiWatch prototype presents an opportunity for businesses to innovate with screen interfaces by exploring arm-projected touchscreens for wearables.
- Increased Functionality of Wearables
- The projected touchscreen on the LumiWatch shows potential for businesses to improve functionality of small wearables.
- Miniaturized Projection Technology
- The miniaturized projection technology on the LumiWatch presents an opportunity for businesses to explore new uses for projection in mobile devices.
Who This Affects Most
- Consumer Electronics
- The LumiWatch prototype presents opportunities for businesses in the consumer electronics industry to innovate in the wearables sector.
- Health and Fitness
- The LumiWatch prototype presents opportunities for businesses in the health and fitness industry to create more advanced wearable devices.
- Entertainment and Social Media
- The LumiWatch prototype presents opportunities for businesses in the entertainment and social media industry to enhance the user experience of mobile devices.
