NTT starts testing smellyphone
08 April 2008
NTT starts testing smellyphone
If this one had come out last week, we'd probably have ignored it as an April fool. As it happens, it seems Japanese carrier NTT Communications is actually serious about adding olfactory experiences to the existing audiovisual stimulation communications services already deliver.
From next week, NTT Com and its mobile unit NTT DoCoMo will be conducting a pilot test of its Mobile Fragrance Communication (Kaori Tsushin Mobile) service.
The Fragrance Communication package features a device that has been loaded with a cartridge of essences, or base fragrances, which is controlled by an i-mode site accessible by mobile phone. Users can select recipes for specific fragrances or access Fragrance Playslists, which are then mixed and emitted from the unit as the user watches AV content played back on their phone.
Because the system can be operated remotely, by phone or email, users can set it up to fragrance the home before they return.
NTT is also looking for partners to roll out associated services, such as ringtones, music or horoscopes combined with fragrances, and even applications for housing, automotive, consumer electronics or videogame markets. Imagine, you could enhance that live gig recording with the smell of a sweating crowd and the unmistakable scent of a mosh pit, or return home from a day fitting cars on the factory floor to the relaxing aroma of engine oil.
Meanwhile a hardware company called Vuzix has made its iWear video glasses available in 3 UK retail stores and via its website.
Apparently, Vuzix's goggles, which are compatible with all video-out enabled handsets such as the Nokia N95, are akin to wearing a 62" plasma TV screen on your face.
The headset also features built-in stereo speakers and claims to give five hours continuous use from a single charge.
The Vuzix iWear glasses are priced at £199.95.
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