Will Devices Respond to Thoughts in Only 10 Years? Waiting for the ‘Internet of Senses’

The idea that a machine can respond to your thoughts — without there being a button or verbal command involved — seems pretty futuristic. But the 9th Ericsson ConsumerLab Hot Consumer Trends report predicts the”Internet of Senses,” as it’s been dubbed, is coming in ten years.

Tech Acute cites that report, describing its prediction that a user interface will connect to the human brain to allow devices to respond to thoughts.

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Dr. Michael Björn, Head of Research Agenda, Ericsson Consumer and IndustryLab stated that “We often imagine the future as a linear development from today. But we already need to consider what opportunities and challenges a world where all human senses are digitalized will bring.” He also adds that “You could go to work, go on vacation, and travel the world, all from your home.”

Dr. Björn also mentioned that this new technology will have a positive impact on climate issues. An example of this is digitizing activities that damage the environment. In doing so, we could also reduce the carbon footprint. This new way of digital sensory technology would help make society more environmentally sustainable.

But he also mentioned the people’s concern about the possibility that corporations might manipulate their senses. These bring into question how their privacy protection would play out in context with the Internet of Senses.

The consumer trends made possible by Internet of Senses in 2030

The cited report predicts 46 million early technology adopters from 15 different cities. These adopters anticipate the Internet of Senses in 2030 through the following trends: 

1. 59% of the consumers believe VR goggles will allow users to see routes to places they simply think about visiting
2. 67% of consumers believe that people will be able to imitate others’ voices with a microphone
3. 45% think a device might soon exist which can make food taste like whatever one desires
4. 60% think digital – yet very experiential – travel will exist in ten years
5. 45% believe there will be digital malls in 2030 allowing shoppers to use all their senses
6. 60% believe Internet of Senses will help society prevent issues related to climate change

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