Ever thought of a Stylus or Smartpen with which you could draw or write virtually anywhere? Well OTM technologies has done the trick and introduced a wonderful product namely, ‘Phree’. As claimed by them, Phree is the world’s first unrestricted, high resolution, write-virtually-anywhere mobile input device. Currently running their campaign on Kickstarter for a goal of $100,000, OTM technolgies have been able to pledge a sum of $363,989 (at the time I’m writing, to be precise) with 35 days yet to go.
With Phree you can write notes, draw doodles or pictures and other incredible things virtually on any surface. Phree can be connected to all your devices like Smartphones, Tablets, Laptops, TV or even VR headmounts using Bluetooth. Phree currently supports all popular softwares and comes in handy, especially while using apps like OneNote, Evernote, MS Office etc.
The features of Phree do not end with just note taking. Phree features a graphical touch display which displays messages and other notifications. While scribbling notes, the display shows icons for pen, rubber and a highlighter. The built in Mic and Speaker lets you use Phree as a bluetooth headset. Besides these, Phree can also be used as a Bluetooth mouse.
So how does it work? OTM technologies have been able to develop and patent a sensor called Optical Trasnlational Measurement sensor which is being used in Phree. They claim it to be the world’s smallest as well as the most compact laser Interferometer. It works on the principles of Interferometry and measures the relative motion of any 3-D object with extreme resolution and accuracy, up to a distance of 1 inch from the object. The signal recieved is then translated into X,Y,Z motion coordinates by signal processing algorithms which are fed to the device via Bluetooth. Basically, the sensor tracks the relative motion of a surface by measuring the interferences between a laser beam projected on the surface and the ones that are reflected from the surface (That’s the most simple way I could explain). If you wanna research and learn more, you can click here to learn more about interferometry.
Coming to the design, Phree is thin, ovally designed and feels comfortable in hands. It wieghs 30g and has dimensions 142 x 18 x 8.5mm. Right now prototypes are available in Black, Graphite, Silver and Gold. The manufacturers claim that the battery will last around a week with typical usage.
The awesome team has also designed and included (Phree can be ordered with or without a case) a functional case to carry Phree with. It has a cap which magnetically attaches to the body and can be used as a smartphone stand while writing. The manufacturers have also updated that they will include wireless charging capability with the case.
To get a more clear cut idea regarding this innovative product, watch the video below :
If you liked the product, you can head to Kickstarter and back the project. Please don’t hesitate as only few of the perks are left to buy. If you have anymore suggestions regarding the article or product, sound them off in the comments!