1HDC 09.09 - The Future of Digital Reading - Submissions

The Link Wand is focused on creating new modes of reading socially, while being highly portable. Removing the archetype of a “book”, the Link Wand returns to the ancient idea of a scroll. The product is held like a wand, waved at traditional books to download previews and to “pass books” amongst friends. By using an accelerometer and RFID technology, a user can capture his/her interest in any book they might come across via programmed gestures.

The Link Wand splits apart to unroll a flexible color screen. The Link Wand could be clipped on a bookbag or other item, to be displayed, creating a culture of Link Wanderers. By retaining the concept of the visible book edge, others can see what someone is reading, and capture the social habit of defining people by their reading tastes and creating opportunities for face-to-face discussions instigated by the exposed title.