Lookin’ for Love?

Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match…

I wonder what you’ll make of this? Some University of Maine new media students created a sort of high-tech matchmaker. It’s kind of like speed dating meets eHarmony and goes mobile.

Essentially, the students designed a computer program where users input information about their personality traits and preferences. That information is then uploaded onto a small, portable unit. The unit is then connected to a shirt or handbag wired with small LED lights. As the user walks around, whenever they come within 30 feet of a personality-compatible person, they literally light up!

The students have named the product the Friend Finder and envision it becoming the next wave in dating services. Their thought is that if people knew more about the personalities of the people they walk past, they might be more likely to take the plunge and start a conversation. The students are now researching ways to make the device smaller and less expensive.

Here’s a preview of how it works…




So, instead of playing old-fashioned eye contact games, flirting from across the room, and eventually wading your way through small talk, potential dateables can now cut right to the chase.

“Well, we’ll obviously like each other, wanna go catch a movie this weekend?”

I’m trying to picture my teen walking around on a college campus next year with her heart-light glowing for the world to see. Hmmm…

So what do you think? Cool idea…or not?

4 comments:

Gayle Hedrington said...

I think this is technology out of control, but then I am an old fashion type of girl.

What if you both like each other and still have the device on while you go get a cup of coffee and both of your devices keep going off... not a good start..

However I can see where the younger crowd would find this appealing.

Anonymous said...

I think it's funny. I don't know that I would have ever worn one - but I was the queen of blind dates in college & after. DH & I met online via an ad I posted, which was cutting edge 15 yrs ago. (I recently read that the #1 way people meet their significant others today is online - something like over 20%, which was higher than any other category they had. 15 yrs ago it was odd, now it's commonplace.)

Jean Stockdale said...

Thank you for stopping by my site and leaving a comment. The teenage years are daunting at best!! These are the times when our children are approching making the biggest decisions of their lives-they will soon choose their mate, their mission in life (career path, etc.), and their Master (will they live for the Lord Jesus Christ or for themselves). No wonder they are years of uncertainty and angst! Blessings as you navigate this rough waters.

Annette Piper said...

I wonder how accurate it really is?