Beginning as a federally funded research project at the Colorado School of Mines, HapWare is now set to release its new product.
The technology consists of a pair of glasses that utilises computer vision to translate facial expressions into vibrations on a wristband. For example, a smile will feel like an upward U-shaped pattern on the wrist, and a wave will create a side-to-side motion.
Co-founder Jack Walters states, “It’s a new category of wearable that communicates those real-time human insights.”
Duarte, who became blind at 18, is pleased with the product: “I feel somebody smiling, and then I smile. It mirrors what’s being done.”
The device has the potential to be widely accessible, given that it doesn’t rely on artificial intelligence, cloud computing, or an internet connection. The device is set to hit the market in early 2026, with a $99 preorder cost and a small monthly subscription.
Walters states, “The goal has always been about empowerment and independence, giving people the ability to do things that they may not have had before, or giving them the confidence to do something they’ve always wanted to do.”
To find out more, please read 9news’ article on the facial recognition technology.