TagMe: an easy-to-use toolkit for turning the personal environment into an extended communications interface

Abstract

In this paper we present an end-user toolkit for easy creation of responsive objects and environments. TagMe consists of a wearable device that recognizes the object or surface the user is touching. The user can make everyday objects come to life through the use of RFID tag stickers, which are read by a RFID bracelet whenever the user touches the object. We present a novel approach to create simple and customizable rules based on emotional attachment to objects and social interactions of people. Using this simple technology, the user can extend their application interfaces to include physical objects and surfaces into their personal environment, allowing people to communicate through everyday objects in very low effort ways. This paper discusses different applications for this type of technology as well as the implementation of the bracelet prototype and the supporting smartphone application.