What's happened
Researchers at University College London have developed a wearable device called BAMH that simulates the sensation of human touch. This technology aims to enhance virtual interactions and has potential applications in healthcare and robotics. A clinical trial is set to begin to study touch sensitivity degradation.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, the BAMH device 'can simulate touch as natural as real-life sensations,' highlighting its potential in both social and medical contexts. Dr. Sara Abad emphasized the importance of touch for social bonding, stating, 'for social bonding, which is important, you need touch, but video calls don’t provide that.' Meanwhile, the NY Post noted the device's broader applications, including its use in robot-aided surgeries and handling hazardous materials. This multifaceted approach indicates a significant leap in both emotional and practical applications of technology.
How we got here
The BAMH device was created to address the lack of physical touch in virtual interactions, especially highlighted during the pandemic. Researchers aim to explore its applications in healthcare and robotics, particularly for patients with sensory loss.
More on these topics
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University College London, officially known as UCL since 2005, is a public research university located in London, United Kingdom.