Researchers from the University of Glasgow developed a device that allows users to feel a hologram physically.
The technology creates a sense of touch by blowing air with an appropriate amount of force onto the user in response to the movements of their hands. The research team tested the new technology using an interactive projection of a basketball. They found that the ball could be convincingly touched and even rolled and bounced.
The researchers are currently studying the idea of adding smells and modifying the airflow temperature to allow users to experience hot or cold surfaces. All of these factors will contribute to a more realistic immersive experience.
This technology is a stepping stone towards building an actual holodeck, which will enable us to create virtual objects literally out of thin air. Those objects will look and feel completely real to the point that we won’t be able to tell the difference.
How would something like this change our world? What is the first thing you would choose to create? Please let us know in the comments below.