MIT Media Lab
Whatever will they think of next?
For now, we’ll have to make do with potentially purchasing the toothpaste that will tell you what the weather’s doing. If you’re the kind of person who thinks about what to wear while brushing your teeth, then this is the thing for you.
(See the top 10 scientific discoveries of 2010.)
David Carr of MIT’s Media Lab is working on a prototype, apparently called “Tastes Like Rain.” It’s a toothpaste which can change flavor depending on the weather (it’s attached to a Linux computer that pulls in forecasts, using software to compare previous and current temperatures). Mint means that it’s colder than yesterday, cinnamon the exact opposite and blue stripes indicate precipitation.
(See pictures of cold weather in Europe.)
The prototype is still in the early stages and Carr continues to work out the technical specifications but has hinted that it could be powered on a low-cell battery. And while this might be a tough sell due to the ease of getting up to date forecasts via apps on your phone or computer, there’s still much to admire. But do remember that when you’re brushing away, miserable that you got mint yet again, there’s only ever one reasonable conclusion to reach: the tooth hurts. (via CNet)