# Shape-Shifting Navigation Cubes This Navigation Device Changes Shape to Direct You By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2015-08-31 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/navigation-device References: [gizmag](http://www.gizmag.com/navigation-haptic-yale-animotus/39130/) & [news.yale.edu](http://news.yale.edu/2015/08/26/shape-shifting-navigation-device-both-sighted-and-visually-impaired) The Animotus is a cube-shaped navigation device that acts as a [haptic compass](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/minverse) of sorts, pointing you in the right direction so you can get to where you're going. While it's true that a lot of us have GPS-enabled devices these days, even the latest and greatest GPS technology can sometimes let you down, and it's often easier to ask someone to point you in the right direction. This is where the Animotus comes in. The [cube changes shape](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rubiks-wowcube) in response to wireless instructions to indicate the user's position relative to their environment. The Animotus could have broad potential, for example as a [navigational device for hikers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/navigation-system) and recreational walkers that would allow them to navigate and appreciate their environment without distraction. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.0/10 - Popularity: 52% | Activity: 59% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Shape-shifting Navigation Devices:** The Animotus is a disruptive innovation opportunity that could revolutionize navigation for various industries. - **Haptic Compass Technology:** The development of haptic compass technology like the Animotus opens up new possibilities for enhancing navigation experiences. - **Personalized Navigational Tools:** Personalized navigation devices, such as the Animotus, offer a disruptive innovation opportunity in creating customized navigation solutions. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Outdoor Recreation:** The Animotus has potential applications in the outdoor recreation industry, providing individuals with an immersive and enhanced navigation experience. - **Tourism:** In the tourism industry, shape-shifting navigation devices like the Animotus can offer tourists a unique and interactive way to explore unfamiliar destinations. - **Emerging Technology:** The development of shape-shifting navigation devices represents an emerging trend in the technology industry, presenting disruptive innovation opportunities for navigation solutions. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Directional Compass Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/homing-compass.md) - [Neck-Worn Navigational Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/loovic.md) - [AI-Enhanced Phone-Free Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/terra-ai.md) - [Screen-Free Wandering Navigation](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/screenfree-wandering.md) - [Haptic Navigation Wristbands](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/haptic-navigation-wristband.md) - [Homing Compasses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/het-kompas.md) - [AI-Powered Mobility Aids](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/navicane.md) - [Zero-Gravity Robotic Cubes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/electrovoxel.md) - [Virtual Direction Guides](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/online-compass.md)