Kochi-based startup Fin invents wearable ring to control your gadgets

A young techie has invented a ring-type device, that can turn your palm into a gesture interface to control multiple devices, including mobile phones, television, music system, gaming console to name a few. 

The smart ring called ‘Fin’ promises to be the next revolution in wearable technology. Fin is the first hardware product developed by Kochi-based robotics start-up, headed by 23-year-old Rohildev.

Wearable devices are the next stage of computing and the thumb ring developed by Rohil and his team is stylish and easy for use. Fin is fitted with a bunch of sensors that can detect finger taps, swipes and identify various parts of the palm by calculating their distance from the thumb. It uses smart Low Energy Technology such as Bluetooth for communication with connected devices.

Fin can transmit these natural gestures as commands to any connected Bluetooth device, such as a smartphone, a music player, a gaming console, a digital interface inside a car, a television set or a home automation device.

Made out of durable, waterproof and dustproof material, a single Fin will be capable of supporting up to three devices at a time. It will come with a custom Lithium ion battery with micro-USB charging dock and last more than one month on full charge. 

“One of the most valuable applications of Fin will be as a companion for the physically challenged, provided they have a functional thumb. The palm can be a touch interface for the visually impaired and Fin can be used to control disability aids with the least amount of physical stress,” Rohildev said.

The retail cost of the device at almost Rs 7,500 does not justify its applications. The innovators, however, hope to bring down the price, once it goes to mass production.

RHLvision has raised Rs 1.23 crore through the crowd-funding platform Indiegogo, with over 1600 people signing up for the device. While the team plan to ship the developers’ version from India, its bulk requirement will be sourced from Taiwan.

The company also plans to explore a variety of applications with the device and will release the software development kit for interested partners, said Rohildev. Their exposure at the Las Vegas Hardware Battlefield has opened up possibilities for international tie-ups, with several developing companies like head-mounted display and smart watch makers seeking partnership.