Presence Frames
Device, 2004
Featured in Engadget, Coolhunting, and the book Immersed in Media: Telepresence in Everyday Life.
WHAT: A pair of networked photo frames that indicate the remote presence of the person in the photo.
HOW: Each picture frame has an embedded motion detector, as well as an internet connection. When my sister walks by her frame, a motion detector is activated, and a signal is sent out through the internet. My frame immediately receives this signal from my sister’s frame, and it lights up a series of LEDs that illuminate a frame design laser etched into the glass.
WHY: The goal was to provide a means of ambient notification that a loved one is present, similar to noticing a friend walk by your window.
WHO: This is a device for any group of people who want to stay in touch.
When Susannah walks in front of her brother’s photo frame, his frame of her flickers to life.
When Matty walks in front of his sister’s photo frame, her frame of him flickers to life.