W4: Communication technology

Communication technology

Communication technology has evolved from simple text messaging to advanced video calling, becoming essential in our daily lives. Despite its progress, the current technology still lacks the ability to fully replicate face-to-face interactions, especially in transferring deeper sensory experiences like touch, smell, and taste. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the demand for richer, more meaningful communication methods continues to grow, pushing the boundaries of current technologies. This progression require innovations that not only close the gap but also enhance the sensory aspects of communication.

Today's communication relies primarily on audio and visual elements, which were particularly essential during remote interactions necessitated by global pandemic happened in 2020. However, these technologies often fail to provide a truly immersive experience, frequently leaving out those who are not skilled with technology and not engaging all the human senses. This limitation emphasize the need for innovation that can bridge the gap between digital and physical interaction, enhancing sensory engagement. The challenge lies in developing solutions that are accessible to all users, regardless of their technological expertise, to truly democratize the benefits of advanced communication technologies.

Figure 1: Hologram Video Calling (from drama)

In the next 30-40 years, communication technology could transform into a multisensory experience, where interactions are not limited to screens but include environments that simulate physical presence. This future vision includes holographic displays that project 3D images into our spaces and interfaces that allow us to share not just thoughts but also physical sensations, revolutionizing how we connect with each other across distances. Such advancements would dramatically reduce the sensory gap in long-distance communication, making it feel as real and interactive as being physically together. This evolution will fundamentally change the way we perceive presence in digital interactions, possibly redefining human connectivity.

To address the lack of physical feedback in digital communications, developing wearable devices that provide haptic feedback could simulate the sense of touch. This technology would make virtual interactions more tangible and emotionally engaging. Implementing this would require partnerships with wearable technology developers and investment in material sciences to create comfortable, effective products. Enhanced tactile communication would significantly deepen the connection between individuals in different locations, making remote interactions feel more natural and connected. It would allow people to experience a handshake, a pat on the back, or the comforting touch of a loved one, transcending physical distances.

The Hug Project by Cutecircuit Company

Introducing devices capable of emitting smells during digital interactions could greatly enhance the realism of virtual experiences. The sense of smell is closely linked to emotions and memories; incorporating it into communication technologies could make virtual meetings and calls much more immersive and memorable. The development would involve collaboration with chemists and engineers to create a safe, versatile range of scent emissions. By enriching digital interactions with scents, we could significantly boost the emotional and mnemonic value of remote communications, making them as memorable as face-to-face meetings. These devices could replicate the smell of coffee during a virtual morning meeting or the scent of rain during a virtual walk, further blurring the lines between virtual and physical reality.

Enhancing virtual reality platforms to accurately replicate physical environments for meetings and social interactions could eliminate the limitations of distance. Investment in VR technology would focus on improving visual fidelity, user interface, and sensory feedback to make these platforms less disorienting and more user-friendly. Collaborating with VR developers and psychologists to understand and integrate human sensory needs would be crucial. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we conduct business, learn, and maintain personal relationships, offering an unparalleled level of immersion that mimics real-life interactions. Enhanced VR could transform education, allowing students to feel as if they are physically in a classroom or lab, making learning more engaging and effective.

My personal experience in a long-distance relationship (LDR) played a significant role in inspiring to come up with these solutions. My partner and I often share aspects of our daily lives, such as meals, but we're limited to only seeing and describing these experiences without the ability to smell or taste. This limitation sparked my interest in developing multisensory communication solutions that could bridge these sensory gaps. The exercise has profoundly influenced my view of communication technology, highlighting the potential to enhance how we experience connections and interactions remotely. It has opened up possibilities for making distant interactions feel as rich and engaging as those we have in person.