Cell Phones of the Future

Just when I thought I had a handle on how to use my cell phone, I find out that the “next generation” models – which probably means they’ll preview within the next year – are going to be even sleeker, thinner and more hi-tech. Tomorrow's cell phones may bear little resemblance to the snap-open handsets or even the sleek, flat rectangular phones we sport today.

Think I’m making all this up? Think again! Engineers from design firm Pilotfish, in collaboration with sensor-making giant Synaptics have created a phone that has no buttons and is operated with only gestures. Meanwhile designer Manon Maneenawa has built a phone that can be converted into an alarm clock or a wrist watch, and Sweden's GoldVish just began selling a phone for the couple who have everything; a $1.26 million dollar cell phone that features over 200 inlaid diamonds and a secret compartment. A ‘secret compartment?” For what - my credit card? Just don’t tell my wife.


My personal fave may also prove to be the one that garners the most sales: the just- released “Onyx” understands signs and gestures, thanks to the sensitive touch pad covering most of its surface. It opens and closes applications when swiped by one or two fingers. The phone recognizes shapes and body parts. Lift Onyx to your cheek and it will pick up a call. According to Synaptics, "…The goal of this concept was to show people a completely different way of designing and making a phone.’ On that note they scored. The fact that they also produced a phone that doesn’t rely on a conventional touchpad is just short of amazing.

Yes, the cell phone as we know it - mostly those snap-shut clamshell types or the flat, rectangular candy bar devices—are in line for a major makeover. It was just a matter of time.