How Tech Is Transforming Long-distance Relationships

If you were in a long distance relationship ten years ago, everyone would be placing bets on how long it was going to last.

There often weren’t high hopes for thosetrying to make love work with miles between them. And there’s a good reason for that. Back then, you didn’t have the technological means to support your relationship.

Instead, you spent hours talking on the phone. But, with the help of new technology, long-distance couples can keep the flames burning. As intimacy is an essential factor in any relationship, couples can now FaceTime, even engage in online spanking chat.

So how is technology affecting long distance relationships? Let’s find out.

Long-distance sex toys

When the messenger Skype first came out, it opened the door for long-distance couples to engage with each other via webcam. However, mutual masturbation via Skype now seems like an innovation of the past.

Companies such as We-Vibe have since created sex toys and massagers that partners can control remotely through a smartphone app. These sex toys respond in real time. So if you want your partner to be stimulated, it’s going to happen the moment you press the button.

Apps outside of the bedroom

There’s more to relationships than just sex. Of course, sex is a big part, but most long-distance couples miss the little things. More and more apps are now being created to complete those missing parts.

For example, apps such as Klikaklu send you and your partner on a geocaching scavenger hunt. Gaze allows you to watch videos or Netflix at the same time as your long-distance sweetie.

It also syncs with a video call, taking “Netflix and Chill” to a whole other level. And the Avocado app allows couples to send messages to each other and sync calendars securely.

Live stream

When you’re in a long-distance relationship, you’re often not interacting in real time. Everything you hear from your partner has already happened. But technology is now making it possible for you to experience your partner’s day as it unfolds.

Front Row is a wearable live-streaming camera that allows you to accompany your partner on trips to the grocery store, a hip-hop show, or even a family dinner. You don’t have to hear about how their day was— you can experience it with them.

Adding ‘touch’ from a distance

One of the hardest parts of being in a long-distance relationship is the lack of physical connection. You’re not able to touch, hug, or kiss your partner as you would normally do.

However, who said you couldn’t touch your partner in a long-distance relationship?

Researchers at SIAT (SFU’s School of Interactive Arts and Technology) are creating interactive gloves called Flex-N-Feel. Couples will be able to “feel” each other when wearing these gloves, helping to minimize the space and create a genuine physical presence with your partner.

All in all, the world of tech is here. It’s changing the way we communicate with each other, whether it’s near or far away. As the world of tech and intimacy continues to advance, it continues to bring people closer together, even when they’re miles apart.

Image sources: Victoria Borodinova