Scientists at the University of Hong Kong City in China have developed a gadget resembling a lollipop that enables users to experience the tastes of foods featured in virtual reality videos.
A study released on November 25 suggests that a lollipop acts as a “mobile taste interface,” stimulating users’ taste buds to create a sensory experience.
Scientists say that the sense of taste plays a significant role in human experience, affecting both physiological and psychological aspects. Research on flavor technology is still in its early phases.
The device is made up of small pouches filled with various gels and chemicals that, when mixed with saliva, replicate the desired tastes. Each gel emits a specific ‘electric signal’ to control the intensity of the flavor being produced.
Electronic lollipops currently offer a selection of nine flavors, including salt, sugar, cherry, citric acid, green tea, passion fruit, grapefruit, milk, and durian, and these flavors can be combined to create unique taste experiences.
Immersive encounter
Electronics can also stimulate the sense of smell, enhancing the overall experience and making it more realistic. According to biomedical engineering researcher Yiming Liu from the University of Hong Kong City and the University of Tokyo, there are five common human senses including vision, hearing, touch, smell, and taste.
The team aims to develop a virtual reality experience where users can engage all five senses in a realistic 3D virtual environment, inspired by the OASIS in the movie Player No. 1 (2018), as stated by Liu.
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The gels currently have restrictions on their duration due to ongoing technological advancements, lasting only one hour.
Devices can also be used for medical reasons or for online shopping at supermarkets, in addition to gaming.