Until Death We Part

Dear Impossible Readers,

The most interesting part of James Bond is pretty much when Q explains all the cool gadgets. Today’s smartwatch is close, but not nearly close enough. Most smartwatches still require a smartphone to work. It is honestly also just too big, too bulky, and too uncomfortable. And who the hell wears a watch in his or her sleep? Why not just a simple ring?

Technology companies have been tangoing over screen sizes. Bigger. Smaller. Foldable. Stretchable. Extendable. Liquid (haha, sorry Apple. I still love you, for now). I probably missed something, too. Does it not just make you want to throw your screen right out of the window?

The science to make a personalised smart ring possible is already here. Skin can act as a touch-sensitive surface, pico projectors can display interfaces, and bone conduction can deliver audio. Thermoelectric materials can convert body heat into electricity, while kinetic and triboelectric generators capture energy from motion. With micro-batteries and low-power processors, a ring could theoretically support all the core functions of a smartphone.

Battery space remains a barrier, as it is extremely limited. Furthermore, processors generate heat that could make the ring uncomfortable. Durability is challenging as rings are constantly exposed to bumps, water, and sweat. With the advancement of technology and engineering, it is only a matter of time. If only Q were here.

With love,
Yours Possibly