Problem
Traditional forms of communication such as email, phone, video-conferencing require active, direct, time-limited interaction between individuals. Though obviously powerful and useful, this paradigm is limited for a variety of reasons.
In the modern world, friends, family and couples are often separated for years by long distances and in different time zones. In these cases, communication becomes a significant and sometimes costly event both financially and in terms of time commitment. Also, it can be difficult to coordinate when to initiate the communication event due to differences in time zones.
These forms lack in their ability to persistently and passively communicate important, yet subtle emotions that are naturally communicated between people who share the same living space. Objects in the environment such as photographs and clothing constantly communicate the presence and the emotion shared between people.
Finally, it is difficult to express deep feelings directly and persistently. This is true whether or not people live together or are separated by a long distance. Indeed, it can be damaging to a relationship if either are constantly trying to directly and verbally express feelings.
