Touchscreens are going hands-free with a new device that lets users scroll through smartphones using just their tongue. The “MouthPad^”, a trackpad chip that can be adjusted to the upper side of the mouth, was shown at the Consumer Electronics Show this week.
It can detect tongue movements, allowing users to scroll, type, make calls and even play chess with a click of their …tongue!
"It's a mouse for your mouth," said Corbin Halliwill, a software engineer at Augmental, the company that created the device.
Η Augmental created the MouthPad^ to be a useful tool for those living with disabilities, especially those with hand impairment or paralysis. Connects to any tablet, phone or computer via Bluetooth.
Augmental's team has been developing its working prototype for about two years, mostly optimizing the controls and applying filters so the device can work even if it collects saliva or water. The product is expected to hit the market later this year and early access is available on their website now.
The MouthPad^ is transparent around the teeth and in its center there is a gold touchpad which is also the contact point for the tongue. Inside there's also a force sensor that senses left and right clicks, or can be mapped to other hotkey options. On the side, there's a small bump that holds the Bluetooth antenna, and the wireless charging battery juts out and rests on the cheek.
Augmental does not recommend leaving it in your mouth during meals, but it is safe to drink something with it. Halliwill mentioned that he wears it in the office while drinking water and with his morning coffee.
The company hopes to further develop the technology in the near future, bringing new features to users in the coming months. Some additions may include voice control as well as controlling a wheelchair.
The battery now lasts around five hours, but Augmental hopes to extend that to eight in its next version.
