It has been reported that Nokia has filed an application for a patent on vibrating tattoos that would allow the user to be alerted to text messages and calls. A “ferromagnetic” material could either be stamped or sprayed onto a users skin that can then be linked to their mobile device. Various pulses could be used to indicate different alerts and identity checks made by the user’s ‘magnetic fingerprint’ – the magnetic tattoo being used to make a shape individual to the user.
The patent application mentions Zoran Radivojevic and Piers Andrew as the inventors based in Cambridge and Jarkko Saunamaki and Tapani Jokinen based in Finland. They are reported as having created the magnetic tattoos that can be placed on a user’s fingernails, fingers, arms or stomach. The tattoo could also perhaps be used to unlock the device to allow greater security.
This does sound like some sort of space-age technology but it could be entirely possible. It all depends on how users would feel having something as invasive as a tattoo, even though invisible. Would it feel abnormal and is it something that people will want? How will it work if your mobile device is stolen and how do they link the tattoo to a specific device? How do you switch it off if you don’t want to be disturbed? Presumably there will be a lot of research undertaken if this is to undergo creation as medical safety will need to be explored if it hasn’t already occurred. Undoubtedly it is fascinating technology and we’ll be watching to see if the invention comes to fruition and what the general public thinks about it.
Posted in 
Tags: 
