The Media Interaction Lab
The Media Interaction Lab (MiL), originally established at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, has moved to Italy, is now part of the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, and operates from NOI Techpark. Since 2004, we are building the next generation of user interfaces — ones that blend seamlessly with the physical world and the human. Our work enables more natural, expressive, and engaging ways to interact with technology. The applications span mobile and wearable computing, robotics, smart environments, automotive, and fitness.
Our research methodology combines theory, design, and evaluation, addressing real-world problems posed by industry partners such as BMW, Kobleder, KTM, SEFAR, and Tratter Engineering, and actively involving these users in a user-centered design process.
What We Do
We develop advanced sensing and display technologies, design new interaction concepts, and study how people use them. Our research spans soft and tangible interfaces, touch and multi-touch interaction, on-body computing, wearable and textile-based devices, mobile and augmented reality systems, haptic feedback, human-automotive interaction, and digital fabrication with novel materials.
Media Interaction Lab @ Youtube
We’re excited to announce that we are now again on YouTube! You can find a growing collection of our research projects there, including several from our collaborations in Austria. The channel offers a visual insight into our work, making it easier than ever to explore our innovations and ongoing developments.
SmartCover (2024 – 2026)
At SmartCover, we are dedicated to transforming everyday objects by embedding advanced sensing technologies. A key example is SqueezeMe, where we turned silicone forms into intuitive interactive interfaces. Our broader mission is to design and develop smart laminated dashboards that not only enhance functionality but also significantly reduce the use of plastic components and traditional haptic buttons and controls.
iPlayground (2024 – 2026)
In iPlayground, we are creating a smart textile lab focused on developing next-generation interfaces using warp knitting technologies. Equipped with industrial machines and advanced analysis tools, and supported by a collaborative Idea Space, iPlayground will drive the creation of tangible prototypes and strengthen the link between research and industry at NOI Techpark.
