Audio Tooth Implant

🔍 Overview

In 2001, designers James Auger and Jimmy Loizeau introduced the world to the Audio Tooth Implant, a pioneering concept in personal communication technology. This innovative idea envisioned a miniature audio output device and receiver implanted into a tooth, allowing users to receive audio information directly through bone conduction. The project aimed to explore the boundaries of in-body technology and its potential impact on society.​CNET+2auger-loizeau.com+2nullsociety.co+2SpeculativeEdu+2We Make Money Not Art+2auger-loizeau.com+2

🦷 Technical Specifications

The Audio Tooth Implant comprised three main components:​

1. Low-Frequency Receiver (150 kHz): Captures signals transmitted from external devices.
2. Piezoelectric Micro Vibration Device: Converts electrical signals into vibrations.
3. Electromagnetic Micro Generator: Powers the implant using magnetic near-field effects.​CNETauger-loizeau.com

The system works by receiving signals from a modified mobile phone or dedicated device, which then transmits a low-frequency signal to the implant. The implant’s transducer converts this signal into low-amplitude vibrations, transmitting sound to the inner ear through bone conduction. This setup allows for discreet reception of information, enabling users to receive audio data without external devices.​auger-loizeau.com

🌐 Archived Resources

For those interested in exploring the original materials and discussions surrounding the Audio Tooth Implant, the following archived pages provide valuable insights:​

• 🔗 Auger-Loizeau Official Project Page
• 🔗 Goldsmiths Research Online Exhibition Page
• 🔗 Wired Article: “Lying Through Their Teeth”
• 🔗 CNET News: “Chew on this: Tooth phone implants”
• 🔗 ResearchGate Publication

📰 Media Coverage

The Audio Tooth Implant garnered significant media attention upon its introduction. It was featured in various publications and news outlets, including:​

• Time Magazine: Listed as one of the best inventions of 2002.
• BBC News: Covered the innovative aspects of the implant.
• CNN: Conducted an online poll regarding public interest in the technology.
• The Sun: Published articles discussing the potential applications of the implant.
• Wired: Analyzed the project’s impact on media and public perception.​Wikipédia, l’encyclopédie libre+2auger-loizeau.com+2nullsociety.co+2

🎯 Purpose and Impact

The primary goal of the Audio Tooth Implant project was to provoke discussion about the integration of technology into the human body and its societal implications. By presenting a plausible yet futuristic concept, Auger and Loizeau encouraged audiences to consider the ethical, cultural, and psychological effects of in-body communication devices.​SpeculativeEdu+2We Make Money Not Art+2auger-loizeau.com+2

📸 Visual Representation

The designers created a clear resin model of a tooth embedded with a computer chip to visually represent the concept. This model was used in exhibitions and media presentations to illustrate the feasibility and design of the implant.​ResearchGate+1WIRED+1

🧠 Conclusion

The Audio Tooth Implant stands as a seminal work in speculative design, challenging perceptions of technology’s role in our lives. It serves as a catalyst for conversations about the future of personal communication and the ethical considerations of integrating technology into the human body.