We all have friends that are just plain fun to talk to face to face. It seems like every time we have the opportunity to have a lunch or a cup of coffee together an interesting conversation ensues.

My idea is for a small and discrete, battery-operated camcorder with two wide-angle lenses and two directional mics, facing in opposite directions at an adjustable angle. The device would record both sides of a face-to-face conversation to flash memory, such as the memory in some camcorders like the popular Flip Video cameras. When played back you would capture both faces, either in split screen or as two movies that would play back in tandem. You could then see both expressions and really recreate the feeling of being there again. Another possible variation would be to have a voice-activated device that would switch back and forth depending on who was speaking.

Now some people will certainly say that this would destroy the spontaneity of the conversation and that one or both parties would be self conscious. I think people would get over it after a few minutes. Self consciousness has a time limit. And naturally both parties would have to trust each other as to how and when the file would be viewed.

I know I have had many memorable conversations that I wish I could see and hear again. And the device would also be good for formal situations such as interviews, training etc.

what do you think?

What do you think of this idea or comment?
(You can change your vote at any time)

I agree

No opinion

I disagree