- Utilize this gadget for scenting cinematic experiences as well.
For film and series fanatics, there's no denying the appeal of being able to smell the action. In the not-so-distant future, this fantasy could become a reality with the introduction of a new device from US company Elevated Perceptions, known as MovieScent. Slated for release in September, this gadget promises to bring a whole new level of immersion to home cinema experiences, allowing viewers to "smell the action" whether they're watching a character chowing down on a fragrant pizza on-screen or embarking on adventure in a jungle.
Elevated Perceptions, which already has the device GameScent on the market, touts MovieScent as the next big thing. According to the associated website, users can "experience their favorite movies like never before."
How does MovieScent work?
The device, which is compatible with all TV devices, computers, and gaming consoles, comes complete with fragrance bottles. These can be connected to the TV via HDMI and controlled via an app. An onboard Artificial Intelligence (AI) analyzes the audio signal and releases scents that match the scene playing out on-screen.
In essence, MovieScent appears to be an evolution of GameScent, which was primarily marketed towards gamers. However, MovieScent is also said to work with video games, although it remains unclear whether the two devices differ beyond their included scent directions and branding.
What does "Anime" smell like?
The MovieScent starter kit is said to include a variety of scents, such as "Restaurant", "Ocean", "Storm", "Forest", "freshly cut grass", and "clean air" (for neutralizing odors). Other scents include "Pizza", "Jungle", or "New Car Smell", with 36 more in the planning stages. GameScent includes "Forest", "Storm", "Explosions", "Gunfire", "Race Cars", and "clean air", which are said to last for 4,000 to 5,000 sprays each. Planned scents for GameScent include "Blood", "Sports Arena", and "Anime".
However, the selection remains somewhat limited, as a device can only hold six bottles. As such, users must essentially guess what scent might be appropriate for a given scene. In reality, only five scent notes can be released at a time, as one spot is reserved for the neutralizing scent.
Is it just a gimmick?
While MovieScent promises an unforgettable cinema experience, whether it can live up to the hype remains to be seen. The device, with a suggested retail price of around $180, has yet to hit the market. Meanwhile, GameScent, which currently retails for around $150 on Amazon, has yet to fully win over critics.
The "Shacknews" portal writes that the device "works surprisingly well", but people with a more sensitive sense of smell might find it overwhelming. PC Gamer, on the other hand, has much more critical words, describing GameScent as a $20 gag gift that's fun, but ultimately destined for the trash. YouTuber AlexiBexi is also far from convinced, describing GameScent as a "completely unnecessary piece of junk that shouldn't exist."
This new device, MovieScent, from Elevated Perceptions, aims to revolutionize home cinema experiences by allowing viewers to 'smell the action' through its AI-powered fragrance release system. Despite the promising starter kit featuring various scents like 'Pizza' and 'Jungle', critics have given mixed reviews, with some finding it 'overwhelming' and others considering it a 'gimmick'.
