Japan develops system to measure and share physical and mental pain
NTT Docomo in Japan has developed innovative technology that lets people understand and even experience another person’s pain, with applications in healthcare, rehabilitation, and immersive experiences.
Japanese mobile carrier NTT Docomo has developed a system that measures physical and mental pain and translates it into a format others can understand.
The technology utilises brainwave analysis to convert subjective sensations, such as injuries, stomachaches, spiciness, or emotional distress, into quantifiable levels.
The system, created in collaboration with startup Pamela Inc., allows recipients to understand what a specific pain score represents and even experience it through a device.
Docomo sees potential applications in medical diagnosis, rehabilitation, immersive gaming, and support for individuals who have been exposed to psychological or social harm.
Officials said the platform could be introduced for practical use alongside sixth-generation cellular networks, which are expected to be available in the 2030s.
The innovation aims to overcome the challenge of pain being experienced differently by each person, creating a shared understanding of physical and emotional discomfort.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!