With the tagline, “The conscious use of unconscious auto-contact behaviors,”, a new brand named Hairware is now translating hair-related gestures into modern-day messaging techniques.  

The wearable technology trend knows no bounds with the concept now coming to the fore within the beauty sector. A new brand named Hairware, with the tagline, “The conscious use of unconscious auto-contact behaviors,” is now translating hair-related gestures into modern-day messaging techniques.

Beauty Technology Designer Katia Vega has teamed up with IoT Specialist Marcio Cunha to create a range of conductive hair extensions for women that have futuristic capabilities. The product has the ability to transform a nonverbal message, such as twirling or stroking hair, into an actionable one, like sending a text message, posting your location, taking a selfie or even recording a conversation.

It works by connecting a specially designed device to the hair extensions that recognizes auto-contact behaviors concealed to outside observers. For the concept to work, the extensions have to be conductive which means they are chemically metalized to enable electrical conductivity. The gadget acts as a capacitive touch sensor that detects touch variations on hair and uses machine learning algorithms in order to recognize a user’s intention. It depends exactly where the user touches her hair, on the top, middle or tip, as to whether a text or location is sent, or a selfie needs to be taken.

So for example, Hairware could be used on a date when the user may want to send a friend a text update but doesn’t want to appear rude by using her phone. It can be used in business meetings to send someone the location mid conversation. It’s all about disguising one’s actions. Or it can be used as a security device in times of need when women don’t feel a situation is safe enough to get out their mobile.

When in certain situations it may be inappropriate or difficult to utilize a visible device and stay connected, which is why something like Hairware has the potential to work. Could this be a sign of how consumers could easily integrate gesture-controlled devices into their routines?

Designer Katia Vega is currently working on a version for men for use in beards.

Image and article via PSFK.com