Sony Secures SmartWig Patent

A SmartWig comes in the form of a fake hairpiece with sensors that provide data input. It has the ability to communicate with computers and smartphones. The move to secure a SmartWig patent is seen as an attempt by Sony to pull ahead of the other manufacturers of wearable electronics so it can take a lead in the competition. The device can be worn over natural hair with its electronic components discreetly hidden underneath. Aside from its technological functions, the wig can likewise serve as a fashionable accessory. Sony said the hairpiece might be made of human, horse, buffalo or yak hair, feather or synthetic material.

Functions and capabilities

According to Sony, the SmartWig has many functions and capabilities. It can act as a health care tool that keeps track of the vital signs of the person wearing it. Vital signs include heart rate, blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature and other clinical measurements. Furthermore, it is equipped with navigation features to help users, especially the blind, to find the right directions to their destination. With the SmartWig GPS system, wearers receive feedback through vibration contraptions that help them find their way around and at the same time let them know when they arrive at the designated place.

Other functions are designed for career people who may need the device during project presentations. For this purpose, a SmartWig assists the wearer through the next slides or storyboards up to the end of the exhibition. This is made possible by just raising the eyebrows.

Growing domain

“Wearable gadgets are definitely going to be one of the big areas of growth over the next two years,” said Andrew Milroy, a technology analyst working for Frost & Sullivan. Milroy added that Sony wants to be the frontrunner in the competition game inasmuch as it is trying to gain back its glory that was lost in previous years. Among the trendsetting firms in wearable technology are Google and Samsung that have embarked on the area ahead of the other firms. Google is attempting to market its smart glasses while Samsung has launched its latest commercial product, the Galaxy Gear smart watch.

More SmartWig features

Sony is looking into other possible features for its SmartWig. There is a plan to integrate a video camera in the hairpiece. The firm is also looking into the feasibility of supporting a messaging system in which SmartWigs wearers can communicate with one another with the use of “vibration actuators.” If this becomes a reality, e-mailing and texting may turn to be obsolete in the near future since people can already talk via their wigs. Another potential aspect of the wig is its power to use ultrasound waves in recognizing objects near the wearer.

Reactions

While the use of a SmartWig may sound cool, there are varied reactions to the upcoming device. Laypeople may find it inviting and impressive, but trade experts have doubts on the marketability of the product. According to Mitsushige Akino, financial head at Ichiyoshi Asset Management Co. based in Tokyo, the wig is a fascinating concept, but the setback lies on who will wear the device. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Sony said that the company has not yet finalized its plans on the business aspect of the wearable device.

Photo Credit: Sony Headquarters in Japan