Feeling instead of looking: The straptic wristband takes haptic feedback to a new level

At events like Gamescom 2026, trade show floors feature more than just imminent retail hardware. Visitors can also preview early-stage concepts, such as the straptic —a multi-motor haptic wristband currently on display through Sunday in Hall 10.1 at the Jugendforum NRW booth.

While most gamers are familiar with rumble in standard controllers, the straptic aims for far greater precision. Consider pedestrian navigation: worn on the wrist, the device signals turns and intensifies vibrations as an intersection approaches. This allows users to keep their smartphone in their pocket and forgo audio cues from headphones.

In gaming, the system enhances immersion while acting as an immediate, tactile HUD. In a demo of Forza Horizon 5 at the booth, the wristband communicates cornering and acceleration forces acting on the vehicle. In titles like Fortnite, it signals shield status or alerts players before health reaches a critical threshold.

Developer support goes beyond SimHub integrations, with plugins planned for major game engines. The project originated as a bachelor’s thesis by Kaan Sevinc and remains in an early stage, with current units built by hand. Interested users can apply for the alpha program to secure one of the first 100 units.