Where we are

Computer vision and natural language processing are established but constantly advancing technologies helping computers understand sight & sound. Sensory devices that simulate our other three senses have begun to have practical applications too, like an artificial tongue that can taste test for counterfeit whisky.

Where we’re going

Sensory learning is being compounded and will breed computers with sense perceptions far beyond human ability. From self-driving cars to voice integrated AR, multi-sensory computers will suffuse the world around us, impacting everything from transportation and urban design to the spatial web.

How to think about it

Take for granted that computers will have senses much more refined than our own. What products and services naturally emerge from each sense, the combination of them, or adding them to other emerging technologies – for example drones that detect smells or 3D printing sensitive to touch.

Signals

MIT’s Sensor-packed Glove Helps Ai Identify Objects By Touch

MIT Researchers Taught Robots To Link Senses Like Sight And Touch

Artificial Tongue Could Taste Whisky To Make Sure It Isn’t Counterfeit