What was once the domain of science fiction is now becoming reality: for the first time, holographic 3D objects can not only be viewed but also physically manipulated by hand. Researchers have unveiled a breakthrough technology that could usher in a new era for mixed reality and how we interact with virtual content.
The key to this innovation lies in a clever advancement of traditional volumetric displays. Until now, holograms relied on rigid, rapidly oscillating diffusers onto which thousands of synchronised images were projected at different heights, creating a three-dimensional image. But these rigid structures had a significant drawback: any contact could damage the system or even cause injury. The solution came in the form of a flexible, elastic material that replaces the rigid surface. It absorbs touch and, for the first time, allows users to grab, move or rotate holograms without harming the delicate technology behind them.
To make this possible, the researchers had to do more than just develop a suitable elastic material; they also had to create an image correction process. Touching the display inevitably causes minor deformations, which could in theory distort the hologram. However, with intelligent correction algorithms, the visual representation remains stable—even as users physically interact with it.
The potential applications for this technology are immense. In education, for instance, students could explore the inner workings of an engine or the human body in a hands-on, intuitive, three-dimensional experience. Museums could allow visitors not just to look at virtual exhibits, but to interact with them directly. Even collaboration in business could be revolutionised: rather than working separately through VR headsets, teams could engage with virtual models together—no extra devices required.
Although the technology is still at an experimental stage, it opens up a fascinating future. For the first time, it bridges two aspects that have long remained separate in the digital world: seeing and touching. While it may still be a few years before this breakthrough moves from its debut at this year’s CHI Conference in Japan to full commercialisation, the foundation has been laid. Holograms that you can truly touch are no longer just a vision—they are the next logical step in how we experience digital worlds. The future is becoming more tangible than ever before.
Video and Post picture: UpnaLab
