A Chinese scientist has invented a novel but creepy solution for couples missing out on physical intimacy in long distance relationships.
The device claims to be able to mimic a real kiss by replicating the pressure, movement and temperature of a user’s lips.
In addition to the kissing action, the moving silicon ‘lips’, equipped with pressure sensors and actuators, can also transmit the sound the user makes.
The invention has caused a stir among Chinese social media users, who seem to be divided about it.
While some have dismissed it as ‘vulgar’ and ‘creepy’, most people found it funny.
‘I don’t understand (the device) but I’m utterly shocked,’ said one top comment on Weibo, China’s equivalent to Twitter.
According to China’s state-run Global Times, the invention has been patented by the Changzhou Vocational Institute of Mechatronic Technology.
The lead inventor was inspired by his own long distance relationship of seven years with his now ex-girlfriend.
‘We only had contact with each other through the phone. That’s where the inspiration of this device originated,’ Jiang Zhongli, the leading inventor of the design, told the Global Times.
He believes the device could promote monogamous relationships as it can only pair up with one device at a time. It also requires the consent of both parties.
The device works with a mobile app and to send a kiss remotely, users will have to plug it into their phone’s charging port. After pairing with their partners in the app, couples can start a video call and transmit replicas of their kisses to each other.
For those who aren’t in a relationship, the ‘kissing square’ feature on the app pairs you up anonymously with strangers. If two strangers match successfully and like each other, they can ask to exchange kisses.
Users can also ‘upload’ their kisses in the app for others to download and experience.
Users have already started trying out the app and sharing their reviews on China’s largest online shopping site Taobao.
‘My partner didn’t believe that (remote) kissing could be achieved at first, so her jaw dropped when she used it … This is the best surprise I have given her during our long-distance relationship,’ one user commented. ‘Thank you technology.’
One user pointed out a vital flaw in the design.
‘It is a genius invention, but where’s the tongue?’ they wrote.
The device is priced at 288 yuan (£34) and 550 yuan (£65) for a pair on Taobao where it’s selling over 100 devices a month.
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