Design Stream - product and packaging innovation consultants

Japanese mobile giant, NTT DoCoMo has launched the So703i handset that has a range of interchangeable clip-on covers available to which an AROMASHEET™ can be attached that is fragrance matched to the cover design.

Linking fragrancing with other technologies already occurs in the aircare sector. Technology has driven new innovative delivery systems in the aircare market. What lessons can the aircare market lend to the mobile telephony companies and vice versa? Is there some convergence in these two markets? Imagine the possibilities that this could open up.mobile telephony that triggers an aircare unit in the home, to create the atmosphere you want exactly when you want. Or perhaps scented mobiles that send consumers a sample of a new fragrance? What possibilities for new rituals exist out there? What do you dare to imagine?

Design Stream continually reviews new technologies and ideas and considers how it could be applied to other products to revolutionise that market. To discuss more about how we can help you, contact Miles@designstream.co.uk.

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Scent of Success

Convergence of Technology and Fragrance

In the May 2006 edition of Streamlines we reported on the possible opportunities for new products that could revolutionise the aircare category. Products that fragrance our immediate personal space, rather than complete room environments, to maintain concentration and fight off fatigue could potentially differentiate a product in a crowded market.

A sector of the market that is beginning to experiment with linking technology and fragrance are mobile telecoms companies. Leading companies are adding scents to mobile phones to add another dimension to functionality, and differentiate their products.

In the Chinese market, Hyundai have designed a clamshell phone with a refillable scent reservoir in the centre. Everytime the user makes or receives a call, the scent is released. The scent last about 8 hours and can be refilled by the user via a syringe that is supplied with the phone. The MP280 (or butterfly phone as it has become known as due to the shape of the scent reservoir) will go on sale in China for about 9900 Yuan (about £650).