Haptic technology refers to technology which interfaces the user via the sense of touch by applying forces, vibrations and/or motions to the user. Perhaps the easiest way to think of the technology is to envision the 2002 movie, The Minority Report, in which Tom Cruise’s character is able to move around and feel virtual objects using only a special glove.
Haptic technology, however, is no longer science fiction. According to this article, researchers in Europe have created a pre-commercialization prototype of a device that allows people to “feel” different textiles. The technology is in a very early stage of development so I don’t want to imply it will be revolutioning any industry just yet, but if one considers the advances in virtual reality technology and broadband capability, it is not difficult to imagine how in the not-too-distant future retailers might utilize the technology in virtual reality settings to allow consumers to “feel” the fabric on a new couch or a new suit jacket. (It also has obvious applications in the video gaming industry). Another possible application include using the technology to train future surgeons.
When one further considers the advances in 3-D virtual modeling, it even becomes plausible to consider how educators might employ the technology to more effectively teach subjects such as chemistry, physics and biology by helping students physically “feel” a molecule—and thus better understand its physical properties.
In short, haptic technology is yet another technology that is likely to grow expoentially in the years ahead, and if one hopes to become an “Exponential Executive” it would behoove you to put the technology on your radar screen now.
Jack Uldrich is a writer, futurist, public speaker and host of jumpthecurve.net. He is the author of seven books, including Jump the Curve and The Next Big Thing is Really Small: How Nanotechnology Will Change the Future of Your Business. He is also a frequent speaker on future technology and future trends, nanotechnology, innovation, change management and executive leadership to a variety of businesses, industries and non-profit organizations and trade associations.
