Researchers have argued that computer-mediated communication lacks the nonverbal cues that help to smooth social interaction. The idea is that these sorts of cues (eye movements, smiles, tones of voice) serve as redundant sources of information about the meaning and intent of what somebody is saying, and that this redundancy reduces the uncertainty that can lead to misunderstanding. I wonder if this is what Socialight had in mind when they were designing their mobile phone software:

A Tap just says “hello” or “I’m here” or “I’m there for you” or it acknowledges a point made. By sending a quick vibration to a friend’s mobile phone, you can communicate volumes. Just as you can communicate a great deal with a glance or a Tap on the shoulder - what is said is based on the context of the Tap.

The Tickle is like a Tap, but with more control. Instead of just a quick vibration, the Tickle’s duration and way the Tickle comes through to the recipient is determined by the sender. By simply pressing a button on the mobile phone, vibration is sent. The user controls the vibration just like they control the motor of a blender using its pulse function. The pattern of vibration is whatever the sender chooses. When in Tickle mode, holding down a button causes vibration on the other end and letting go stops it. You can develop your own secret Tickle language with your buddies to communicate silently!

I’m not sure how these taps and tickles reduce uncertainty, but it sounds like fun, especially if you keep your cell phone in your pants.