Image Courtesy: Dezeen
A wearable bracelet that converts sign language into spoken words while turning speech into readable text has won the 2026 Rimowa Design Prize, highlighting how emerging technologies are being used to improve accessibility and communication.
Called Nura, the device was created by designers Samuel Nagel and Paul Feiler and was selected from seven finalists during the annual award ceremony in Berlin. The project earned the pair a €20,000 prize for its approach to bridging communication between deaf and hearing individuals, according to Dezeen.
The bracelet uses electromyography, or EMG, sensors to detect muscle activity in the forearm and interpret sign language gestures. An integrated camera also analyzes facial expressions, allowing the system to incorporate multiple forms of non-verbal communication and improve translation accuracy.
At the same time, spoken words are converted into readable text for deaf users, enabling real-time, two-way conversations without the need for an interpreter. The designers also focused on aesthetics, giving the device flowing, organic forms inspired by manta rays so it resembles jewelry rather than traditional assistive technology.
The project reflects a broader trend in wearable technology, where advances in sensors, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are making communication tools more natural and accessible. While sign language translation systems have existed for years, many have struggled with accuracy, portability, or social acceptance due to bulky hardware designs.
By combining biometric sensing with visual analysis in a compact wearable format, Nura aims to address some of those limitations. If commercialized, technologies like this could help reduce communication barriers in workplaces, schools, healthcare settings, and everyday interactions.
The competition also recognized another sustainability-focused concept. Designer Niklas Henning received a special mention and a €10,000 prize for Paludi Harvester, a system designed to automate reed harvesting on peatlands while supporting environmental restoration and agricultural productivity.