Embedded with an LED display, the Pillobot is a soft, huggable networked pillow that expresses emotions.
A shorthand message such as “love” or “smile” can be sent to the pillow via email. The message is then displayed as an LED emoticon.
As communication is (or should be) a two-way road, a “Hug” message can be sent back by giving the pillow a generous squeeze.
Similar to Cute Circuit’s Hug Shirt or Lina Saleem’s Hap.tickle Greeting dress, the Pillobot, designed by new media artist Claudine Lamothe, uses the softer side of technology “to bring people closer by using modern technologies.”
I think with a more sophisticated LED display and better design, Pillobot would be a great experience for kids in hospitals or with a long distance parent.
Check out the project blogfor more info.