Bird by MUV Interactive is a wearable controller that looks like a cross between a presentation clicker and a finger pulse oximeter. This works with a  receiver that is plugged in via USB, the system then can read the Bird wearer’s hand position, direction, movement, and even posture. It can also receive voice commands. Additionally, using projection technology, it is able to turn any surface into an interactive display.

It’s functionality doesn’t stop at screen navigation but one can also use gestures to turn the lights up or down, open or close the window shades, and turn the coffee machine on and off. Beyond the home, it could be used to operate drones or control simulations of surgical procedures. The system can tell multiple devices apart, so it can be used in a business or school environment for collaboration.

Analysis

Pros:

Ease of use

It seems like a device that is really handy and easy to use since it is intuitive. Being a wearable it is also designed in the way that one can simply slip this on a finger for use.

Functionality 

Since the device is capable of controlling devices and is also able to differentiating up to 10 other Birds, it could bring collaboration in projects to a higher level.

Cons:

Sensory replacement

With it being so convenient and handy to use, does user’s touch sensory of actual objects get replaced? It raises the question of the “smarter” we go, does it actually make us “smarter”? Does it make people more lazy?

Rigid

Yes it does allow for freedom but at the same time what the Bird controls still remains on the flat screen/a surface. I’m just thinking if it allows for non-2D but instead 3D control where it has the ability to for example not only pull screens from the projector to the table but it can be viewed in the air (like a hologram?) I don’t know, its just thought and perhaps our technology is still not yet there.

 

Suggestion

I feel like Bird is something inspired from the gaming equipment like WII and Kinect and has so potential when used in so many areas. For example, from discussion and presentation tool,  to household/devices remote controller, to something that could be used in hospitals where patients that are not so mobile can use this to get things done, to art and design tool.

If the device were to be used for therapy that trains one’s concentration, where it detects the user’s mind activity for it perform its duties. For example, to switch on the lights, users have to point/gesture to the device but focus to get the task done.