In the rapid development of modern technology, artificial intelligence (AI) is gradually permeating every aspect of our lives. Recently, a digital olfaction company named Osmo announced significant breakthroughs in "olfactory teleportation," where AI can achieve the "instantaneous transfer" of smell without human hands or noses. The core of this technology lies in using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) to collect and analyze aroma data.
Image source: Picture generated by AI, authorized service provider Midjourney
Osmo collects aroma data from a specific location using sensors, then transmits these data to a specialized molecular printer capable of synthesizing and combining necessary chemicals to accurately reproduce the scent. This technology previously required manual intervention, but Osmo has now achieved full automation, mapping the processed aromas to its "Principal Odor Map" database, which predicts the relationship between specific molecular combinations and specific odors.
Alex Wiltschko, CEO of Osmo, shared on social media that they have successfully digitized scents, with the first fully automated printed scent being fresh summer plums. Wiltschko expressed that the experience of this scent made him very happy and even carried it in daily life to uplift his mood.
The integration of AI allows Osmo to more effectively handle large amounts of aroma data, significantly improving both the reproduction of complex scents and the overall aroma. Additionally, Osmo plans to use AI to design new scents, enriching the product lines of the perfume industry.
"Olfaction transmission" has broad application prospects. Imagine, if you put on a virtual reality headset, not only could you see the virtual environment but also smell the scents within it, bringing a new dimension to virtual experiences. Osmo also mentioned that this technology has potential in health, helping those who have lost their sense of smell or serving as an auxiliary tool for diagnosing certain diseases.
Of course, the idea of sharing perfumes with distant friends might face intellectual property issues of brands, but transmitting a certain floral scent through this technology is undoubtedly an exciting experience. Although some joke that sending "scents" using this technology might cause a small stir, the exploration of "olfactory teleportation" undoubtedly opens a new door for us.
Key Points:
🌸 AI technology can achieve "olfactory teleportation," allowing scents to be transmitted between different locations.
🤖 Osmo has successfully reproduced scents through fully automated molecular printing technology, with the first achieved scent being summer plums.
🕶️ Potential applications of this technology include virtual reality experiences and health treatments, with broad prospects.