@inproceedings{EichhornWettachHornecker, author = {Eichhorn, Elisabeth and Wettach, Reto and Hornecker, Eva}, title = {A stroking device for spatially separated couples}, series = {MobileHCI '08 : Proceedings of the 10th international conference on Human computer interaction with mobile devices and services}, booktitle = {MobileHCI '08 : Proceedings of the 10th international conference on Human computer interaction with mobile devices and services}, publisher = {Association for Computing Machinery}, address = {New York}, isbn = {978-1-59593-952-4}, doi = {10.1145/1409240.1409274}, pages = {303 -- 306}, abstract = {In this paper we present a device to support the communication of couples in long-distance relationships. While a synchronous exchange of factual information over distance is supported by telephone, e-mail and chat-systems, the transmission of nonverbal aspects of communication is still unsatisfactory. Videocalls let us see the partners' facial expression in real time. However, to experience a more intimate conversation physical closeness is needed. Stroking while holding hands is a special and emotional gesture for couples. Hence, we developed a device that enables couples to exchange the physical gesture of stroking regardless of distance and location. The device allows both sending and receiving. A user test supported our concept and provided new insights for future development.}, subject = {Design}, language = {en} }