Technology is often accused of causing loneliness.
Surveys frequentlyshowthat isolation among young people surges when their social media use grows.
But what could possibly solve these problems triggered by tech?
Why, more tech of course!
Its a common response from (who else?)
technologists, who have a remarkable variety of marketable solutions.
From interactive streaming and online gaming toAI loversand virtual friends, our generoustechlords offer countless alternatives to in-person interaction.
Unfortunately, the cure is often worse than the disease.
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The latest attempt to find a healthy balance isvirtual hugs.
Designed by researchers in Germany, the system uses smart textiles to create a second skin.
When someone puts on the smart fabric, they can experience the sensation of physical touch.
The developers have a noble goal: giving patients in isolation a digital hug with their loved ones.
Thatcould wellcomfort the lonely and create anothersymbol of our descent into digital isolation.
The dirty-minded among us may also imagine other applications for haptics that mimic human touch: sex robots.
If the researchers are ever strapped for cash, they could pursue a lucrative career pivot.
But then again, that market isnt living up to expectations.
Lonely sex robots
A decade ago,Pew Research predictedthat sex robots would be commonplace by 2025.
With just a year left before that deadline, theyre a long way from the mainstream.
Sales have slowed since the pandemic and sex robot brothels have beenforced to close their doors.
We may always need real lovers, relationships and hugs.
Or perhaps the androids just arent acceptable substitutes yet?
The uncanny valley is creepy enough in the lab, let alone the bedroom.
One day, the robots could escape that valley.
And if they do, theyll be promoted as another digital solution to social isolation.
Story byThomas Macaulay
Thomas is the managing editor of TNW.
He leads our coverage of European tech and oversees our talented team of writers.
Away from work, he e(show all)Thomas is the managing editor of TNW.
He leads our coverage of European tech and oversees our talented team of writers.
Away from work, he enjoys playing chess (badly) and the guitar (even worse).
