Boffins create talking paper

I beg your pardon?

6 June 2007 8:30 GMT / By Amy-Mae Elliott

Swedish scientists have created a talking billboard.

Researchers at the Mid Sweden University have revealed an interactive paper billboard that can carry recorded sounds.

The display, only in prototype phase at this stage, uses touch-sensitive conductive inks and printed speakers that play pre-recorded sounds when touched.

The innovative display works with digital paper, embedded with electronics, that sits behind the main image.

When a user touches the paper, the conductive inks send info to a tiny computer that has the recorded files which are then streamed from the paper speakers.

Advertising is one very strong possible area of application for this new science – the prototype display was mocked up as a holiday destination advertisement, people could touch the beach in the picture to hear a brief description.

As well as larger scale billboard advertising the technology could be used in point of sale merchandising in shops, or, if the scientists can scale it down, on product packaging.