Leave it to Japan to figure out a solution to the human disconnect with technology. Smartphones are able to make us connected 24/7 - however how much of that time is actually spent making contact with people, rather than just virtual connections.
Engineers at the Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International (ATR), based in Kyoto, came up with a solution to that problem with Hugvie. A human-shaped pillow that, get this, has a skin like texture so that it actually feels like another human being when hugged or cuddled. It has an opening in its mouth so users can place their mobile device inside and carry on a conversation with an almost human thing.
Ingenious or creepy? You decide.
The ATR team that developed the product is made up of experts from the fields of robot engineering, futon making, and a textile firm.
They envision the pillow to help people to no longer feel distant or lonely when speaking to loved ones on the phone.
"Hugvie is a simple device that uses voice and tactile senses. It creates a strong sense that the user is hugging the other person, a feeling that cannot be attained via mobile phones," they said.
In addition, they say that Hugvie will also interact with your smartphone device to give real-time haptic feedback when you interact with it by speaking or hugging it.
The Hugvie is not just about weirdness for weirdness sake. The concept is actually rooted in science. Numerous studies have proven that human need physical contact, even with inanimate objects, to decrease cortisol levels - a hormone associated with stress.
If you want a Hugvie of your own, it is sold for 10,000 yen (around $80) in Japan starting in September. One Hugvie will measure 31 by 21 inches.
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