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Wearable technology seems to be the latest trend, but one Japanese company is taking
it to a whole new level with an ear computer.
That's right, an ear computer. It's a small clip that fits in the ear and allows the wearer
to access apps such as a GPS or compass just like a smartwatch. (Via YouTube / China Sotsu
Station Channel)
But what makes this ear clip so special is how it's controlled. There are no buttons
or touchscreens — that's because it's operated using facial expressions.
The clip, created by the company NS West, connects to an iPod or smartphone and allows
the user to control and command it by using facial movements such as raising an eyebrow
or clenching teeth. (Via Press TV)
The specific details about its functions have yet to be released, but the Daily Mail reports
it's equipped with a gyro sensor, a heart-rate monitor and a thermometer to keep an eye — or
ear — on your health, hands-free.
Its engineer, Kazuhiro Taniguchi, refers to the device as a "third hand" that he hopes
will be useful for drivers, rock climbers, even hospital staff.
Tech Times reports Taniguchi designed the ear piece with traditional Japanese flower
arrangements in mind. He created it "with the basic idea that people will wear it in
the same way they wear earrings."
The clip can be worn like a Bluetooth headset and discreetly tucked behind the ear — unlike
similar but more obvious wearable tech such as Google Glass. (Via YouTube / Task Yamaguchi)
The developers of the ear computer are currently testing the device and hope to release it
to the market by 2016.