"Haptics, the science and technology of programmable touch experiences, is increasingly used to improve functionality and user experience in virtual reality, robotics, and wearable applications. Yet, one can imagine a future in which haptics do much more: allow people to manipulate virtual content, help families effectively communicate over a distance, and train robots to safely and intelligibly interact with humans. My long-term research goal is to enable compelling physical experiences, akin to our interaction in the real world, through haptic and robotic technologies. In this talk, I present research in my lab in the areas of haptic perception and design and physical interactions with robots. Then, I discuss the remaining steps toward a future where effective and fun physical experiences are designed, tailored, and embraced by all.

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