1982: Computer reveals the new you

It was a very entertaining read, and one article in particular stood out to me. It showcased some new computer technology called U-View to revolutionise salon client consultations. The system, which by the looks of it was the size of a fridge, allows clients to try out a new hairstyle on the screen before they commit.

I guess it didn’t take off, because I haven’t seen many of these systems in salons… have you?

It’s intriguing to look back at new technologies like this. Why was it not successful? Did it solve a real problem? In the case of this 1982 Massive Wig Simulator, I suspect it did provide a useful service, but the cost of implementing it outweighed the value that it gave the salon owner and their clients.

Skip forward to 2014. Smartphones and tablets are embedded in our day to day life. They have 1000’s of times the processing power. What are the next revolutions for salon technology? What would you wish into existence if you could? A device to reattach hair that was cut wrong? A system to automate weather chat? A beautiful appointment scheduling tool? ;)

The mind boggles.

We are on a mission to try and find the creator of this amazing machine, U-View. Can you help us? Do you know the author of the article, Suzanne Thomas? Or can we find Heinz Schumi, the salon owner mentioned in the article? We must meet them!