GNAI Visual Synopsis: A pair of sleek, modern smart glasses on a table, with sound waves symbolically emanating from them to signify the use of sonar technology.
One-Sentence Summary
Researchers at Cornell University have developed “PoseSonic,” a new sonar-based technology for smart glasses that enhances privacy and efficiency, as reported by Live Science. Read The Full Article
Key Points
- 1. The novel “PoseSonic” tech uses micro sonar with CHIRP technology, combined with AI, to create accurate echo profiles of the user’s body, without the need for an optical camera.
- 2. Designed to be cost-effective and privacy-aware, the system can operate over 20 hours on a single battery charge and is expected to cost substantially less than current camera-based alternatives when mass-produced.
- 3. PoseSonic works by emitting inaudible sound waves that reflect off the body back to the device, enabling 3D tracking of nine body joints, enhancing potential uses in daily life activities and fitness monitoring.
Key Insight
The PoseSonic technology represents a significant step toward wearable devices that are not only more respectful of personal privacy but also more energy-efficient and economically viable, heralding a future where technology seamlessly integrates into our daily lives without substantial privacy concerns.
Why This Matters
The development of non-camera-based tracking methods is crucial as it addresses growing privacy concerns regarding devices that could potentially record sensitive personal information. The introduction of sonar technology in wearables also has the potential to revolutionize user experience by offering precise activity tracking while mitigating the battery and cost challenges associated with current smart glasses.
Notable Quote
“It has unique advantages over the current camera-based sensing solutions,” – Zhang, assistant professor at Cornell and director of the Smart Computer Interfaces for Future Interactions (SciFi) Lab.
