Bridged Reality: Using Technology to Nurture Distant Relationships
Felix Ho's thesis, Bridged Reality: Using Technology to Nurture Distant Relationships, explores how technologies can break the barrier for those who are dear to us but living far away. When living at a great distance, friends, family, and couples sometimes become estranged. In order to create a new capacity for connection to break the distance barrier, Felix began his thesis exploration with a high-tech intervention that allows users from different locations to have a shared low-tech experience that makes the user feel connected asynchronously.
"It's not the direct interaction with the other person that makes us feel close to them, but rather, it's shared experience."
—Dr. Andrew Huberman, neuroscientist and professor
VIDA
Vida is an AR game that allows people to exercise collaboratively and feel the presence of their loved ones living far away. During his research, Felix found that his virtual meetings with his family members across the globe became mundane because they lacked bond-creating experiences. He wanted to create a structured experience that people could commit to doing regularly with their partners. Felix started by choosing an experience that both he and his mother shared but struggled to fit into their schedules: exercise.
In the game, users can jog with their partners and beat enemies by doing exercises together.
The user can check their friend's profile and see their memories and activities, indicating their relationship level.
Exolens
Exolens is a pair of AR sport glasses that allow users to wear them like traditional AR glasses and use them while resting on the dock. Through his research on fitness apps with VR/AR headsets, Felix noticed that people don't always want to put on the headset at home—sometimes they just want to do the workout without wearing a device. This insight inspired him to design a product that encourages people to do the activity—whether they prefer to have a more immersive experience or just a quick exercise break.
Felix explains that the headband can be easily detached and washed after use.
The Reconnect Meal
The Reconnect Meal is a care package for sharing care & vulnerability with our loved ones living far away. “We partner with Ubereats to send your loved one the meal experience. The menu consists of four items of your choice that represent four emotions.” The QR code on the menu links to a video showing you're eating while answering questions about your relationships with your loved one. They can enjoy the experience and feel connected with you even when you are asleep.
To learn more about Felix Ho’s work, take a look at his projects in more detail at felixhodesign.com.