Will the remote control still exist in the future? If MIT and Microsoft have their way then the answer would most definitely be no.
The two have partnered together to create DuoSkin, a unique temporary tattoo that when attached directly to the skin, allows the user to control a range of connected devices.
DuoSkin is made using gold metal leaf, which means that it’s cheap, skin-friendly and can support a range of different input options.
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MIT/Microsoft
The finished product can be styled in a number of ways (so it doesn’t scream that you’re wearing an advanced piece of wireless technology), and the applications can range from a simple on/off switch to even increasing/lowering the volume on a device.
If you’re fed up of losing your Oyster, then DuoSkin could potentially help in the future too. In addition to be a control interface, the tattoos can be equipped with wireless communication devices like NFC receivers allowing you to turn your arm into your very own Oyster card.
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MIT/Microsoft
Finally the team developed a simplistic display that could also be worn using the same process.
Using ink-like thermochromic pigments, the displays have two different states and can be switched when the liquid is heated beyond body temperature.
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MIT/Microsoft
As you can probably tell, these are very much in the early stages which means that any channel switching from the comfort of your own arm is still a few years away.
However by creating a faster, easier construction method the project has effectively opened up the space to other research teams to take the technology forward.
Robots In 2016:
1
Robots that can deliver other robots:
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Amazon/AP
Amazon Prime Air is a drone delivery service which the company is currently testing. The company aims to deliver products within just 30 minutes of the customer pressing the 'order' button. (AP Photo/Amazon)
2
Robots that could soon be saving lives:
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MARK RALSTON via Getty Images
The robot 'CHIMP' developed by Team Tartan Rescue from the US prepares to complete a task during the finals of the DARPA Robotics Challenge. It is hoped that these robots will eventually replace emergency services workers during events like the Fukushima nuclear disaster. (MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images)
3
Robots that can carry your stuff:
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MARK RALSTON via Getty Images
A robotic cheetah runs during a demonstration at the finals of the DARPA Robotics Challenge. DARPA's four-legged robots have been designed to carry supplies and ammunition for the US Army. Capable of travelling over tough terrain the hope is that these will eventually replace the need for trucks or small vehicles. (MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images)
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4
Robots that can kill:
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AFP via Getty Images
A sentry robot freezes a hypothetical intruder by pointing its machine gun during its test in Cheonan. South Korea unveiled a high-tech, machine gun-toting sentry robot that could support its troops in detecting and killing intruders along the heavily fortified border with North Korea. The weapons-grade robot can detect, raise the alarm and provide suppressive fire. (KIM DONG-JOO/AFP/Getty Images)
5
Robots that can race each other:
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YOSHIKAZU TSUNO via Getty Images
Japan's motorcycle maker Yamaha Motor introduces the prototype model of a motorcycle riding robot 'Motobot' during a press preview at the Tokyo Motor Show in Tokyo on 28, 2015.(YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP/Getty Images)
6
Robots that are toys:
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ASSOCIATED PRESS
The Sphero BB-8 remote controlled droid is on display at CES Unveiled, a media preview event for CES International, Monday, Jan. 4, 2016, in Las Vegas. The robot is controlled by an app for a mobile device. (AP Photo/John Locher)
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7
Robots that will do your weekly shop:
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A new delivery drone company plans to revolutionise the way we do our shopping by replacing your weekly trip to Sainsbury's with a tiny delivery robot which will bring your fruit and veg straight to your door.(Starship Technologies)