We make
phone calls for one of two reasons. The first is for information exchange, and speech, as mobile phones in their current form enable it, is well-suited for that. The second reason, however, is the need for nearness – to be in touch with someone. In this sense, speech alone has clear limitations.
We developed three prototypes that investigate future visions of physically being in touch through a mobile phone. We proposed three new channels of communication – grasp, moisture and airflow – and explored their effects using phone-shaped prototypes to simulate what it would be like if a loved one could give you a squeeze – and even a kiss – through the phone.
