Cue
The wearable that brings you back to the here and now.
A study project by Vivien Volkenstein
3rd semester, 2025/2026
Supervisors: Tanja Hakl, Romina Marsico and Prof. Tsunemitsu Tanaka
Why Cue?
Interpersonal communication does not take place solely through words – but primarily through eye contact, micro-expressions and subtle non-verbal cues. However, particularly in mobile situations – that is, ‘on the move’ – uncertainties arise precisely regarding these small signals that our fellow human beings send us.
At the same time, digital devices are becoming increasingly prominent and disrupting natural interactions. The challenge lies in supporting interpersonal perception without burdening communication with additional technology.
The idea
‘Cue’ is a discreet wearable system that subtly supports non-verbal signals without drawing attention to itself. The aim is to facilitate interpersonal interaction whilst on the move by reducing uncertainty and encouraging greater mindfulness.
When we talk about interaction whilst out and about, we often talk about interfaces. But what if the actual interface is the person themselves?
The solution in detail
The solution consists of a wristband with integrated Bluetooth functionality. When used in conjunction with other users, signals can be sent to one another, paving the way for further interaction through non-verbal communication.
The added value of ‘Cue’ lies in its subtlety. The signals are designed so that they are perceptible only to the people wearing it or are perceived by others simply as a piece of jewellery. This means there is no additional visible technology; rather, it acts as a natural extension of social perception.
The focus is on reducing anxiety in social situations and on making non-verbal communication more consciously perceptible and interpretable.
Implementation
As part of the project, an interactive website was developed to simulate the wearable system and bring it to life. As no physical prototype was built, the website demonstrates how the system works: it illustrates usage scenarios, interaction flows and how the vibration signals function.
Through visual simulations and guided interactions, it becomes clear how the interaction between the user, the wristband and the technical infrastructure would work in everyday life. The website thus serves as an experiential prototype that makes the ‘Cue’ concept testable and presentable without relying on a real hardware product.