On my flight back from Vienna, I read an item in Scanorama (the high-quality SAS in-flight magazine) about the Nokia Medallions, 4096-color, 96×96 pixel, wearable displays (two models), attached to a steel chain or rubber matte choker that can be worn around the neck or wrist. Images are uploaded via infrared, the device can hold up to 8 images, battery life is estimated to be 15 hours and the price is around US$300 (according to directmobileaccessories.co.uk). This new line of “Imagewear” seems like an interesting new dimension of digital jewelry, more sophisticated than a mood ring and far more practical than a programmable tattoo. One can imagine new forms of GIFt-giving (well, actually, they only support JPEG format) — a loved one can upload a new image for his or her beloved to display … of course, I suppose unloved ones might also be able to upload images (redjacking?).
More from the web site (“Wear your World“):
Nokia launches a new line of lifestyle enhancements with the Nokia Medallion I, an accessory for egos that can stand a little attention.
Even if you don’t want to show exactly what – or who – is on your mind, the Medallion offers plenty of options for self-expression.
Upload solid color to emanate subtle sophistication. Increase your chic by repeating the stripes from your lining or the logo from your bag. Or go bohemian with an abstract close-up from a favorite painting, your garden, or your body.
And when you’re feeling more open to revealing your private life, you can drop the attitude and play it personal with a picture of your pup, a mini-image of your mates, or the most modern cameo you’ve ever seen.
I couldn’t help but think about using the Medallions for displaying emoticons, though I suspect this might not quite fit the type of imaging Nokia has in mind here.