That “sixth sense” device is a heck of a let more interesting actually seeing it in action. It’s also a heck of a lot more interesting the way Wired describes it, as opposed to Reuters’ “Um, it does stuff! Far out!”
First, the device, which, again, is the handiwork of a group of MIT graduate students, has been in development for the past four months, “day and night”; the students have already patented the idea.
Second, describing it as a “sixth sense” device doesn’t quite capture what it’s all about. It’s really more of an organic computer than anything else, you yourself being the “organic” half. Whip your hand out and draw the “@” on it, you’re able to check your e-mail. A stranger approaches you at a party, then the projector projects all their pertinent info: name, Web site, blog address, what they like and dislike, etc. “Wait a minute, you actually like Lost? Well, I know we’ll never be friends, so let’s not waste each other’s time.”