EmotiBit @ UIST 2026: Sponsoring the Student Innovation Contest
Join us in Detroit, Michigan (Nov 2–5, 2026) to empower the next generation of biometric capabilities. How can sensing redefine the human interaction with biometrics? We’re inviting student innovators to use EmotiBit to build and showcase creative projects that explore this.
The Call for Participation is expected in April 2026. Stay tuned for details!
Official UIST 2026 (https://uist.acm.org/2026/) Registration
UIST 2026 Conference
The Student Innovation Contest is an annual highlight of the ACM Symposium on User Interface Software and Technology (UIST), focusing on the future of human-computer interaction through cutting-edge hardware and software.
What is EmotiBit?
EmotiBit is a wearable sensor for capturing high-quality emotional, physiological, and movement data. It is 100% open-source (Arduino-compatible) and provides research-grade accuracy in a maker-friendly form factor.
16+ Biometric Data Streams
PPG (3-wavelength): Heart rate, HRV, oxygen saturation, and hydration.
EDA / GSR: Electrodermal activity reflecting emotional and cognitive arousal.
9-axis IMU: Accelerometer, Gyroscope, and Magnetometer to track complex body movements, gestures, and 3D orientation with precision.
Body Temperature: Skin temperature for health and emotional assessment.
The Contest Bundle
Up to 10 proposals will be selected and each team will receive the All-in-One EmotiBit Bundle, which includes everything needed to start building immediately:
EmotiBit MD Board with PPG, EDA/GSR, 9-axis IMU, and medical-grade temperature sensing.
Adafruit HUZZAH32 Feather for streaming data wirelessly.
Emoti-stretch Straps: 3 lengths to wear EmotiBit anywhere from the wrist to the head.
Data Essentials: 400mAh Battery and microSD card reader.
Teams will also receive a sturdy 3D printed case for their EmotiBit.
Explore Inspiring UIST Papers that Use EmotiBit
- Touchscreens in Motion (2025): Measuring the impact of touchscreens and mental load in distracted drivers.
- Pneunocchio (2023): The creation of a playful human augmentation and corresponding game.
Common FAQs
Who Can Participate?
The 2026 UIST SIC accepts proposals from teams of undergraduate and/or graduate students. Teams of up to 4 are encouraged. Up to 10 proposals will be selected.
What’s in the Contest Kit?
The contest kit includes the All-in-One EmotiBit Bundle featuring the MD Board, Essentials kit, and Electrode Kit, as well as an EmotiBit case.
Important Dates
Call for Proposals: TBD
Student Innovation Contest: TBD
Kit Shipping: Winning proposals will have their kit shipped to them within 5-7 business days of proposal acceptance.