In: Extended Abstracts of CHI 2001 (Student Poster), ACM Press, 2001.

The LoveBomb: Encouraging the Communication of Emotions in Public Spaces

Rebecca Hansson and Tobias Skog
PLAY Research Group, Interactive Institute
c/o Viktoria Institute, Box 620, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
{rebecca.hansson,tobias.skog}@interactiveinstitute.se
http://www.playresearch.com/

Abstract

We are exploring the use of persuasive computational technology as an instrument for the communication of human emotions. Our current focus is on encouraging such communication between strangers. We present the concept of the LoveBomb - a mobile and persuasive device that allows people to anonymously communicate feelings of love (happiness) and sadness. The device contains a radio transceiver that the user can employ to send out shock waves of love, affecting people in the proximity carrying a LoveBomb device. The device also lets its users cry for compassion, quietly signaling to others that they are sad. The LoveBomb is intended to encourage people to express themselves emotionally when situated amongst strangers in public spaces. Focus group studies have provided us with an initial understanding regarding the LoveBomb’s potential social impact.

Keywords

Emotional Communication, Mobile Devices, Persuasive Technology

© 2001