One of the next big things in computer software will be monitoring people’s emotions. Software is being developed around the world that will tell us what other people are thinking. It’s called “affective computing.” It gives computers the ability to read users’ emotions, or “affect.”

“Affecting computing” is going to change our lives. It might not be for the better, but it certainly will make us aware if someone is really listening to us. I watch other people talking to each other all the time and I can spot the disinterested person.

The software is going to be built into glasses, pins, badges, necklaces, neckties, or any item that is visible. Everyone will be using it.

It could turn out to be dangerous. People will now know if they are boring someone and that could ruin relationships.

Personally, I would love to use this technology in the next big company meeting I attend. Most of them bore me to death. I go into my own zone. I look around the room trying to interpret what each person is thinking.

I love playing that game by myself. The person making the presentation is so wrapped up in the topic, he or she fails to see what is actually going on in the room.

I have been to countless meetings over several decades. The scenario is always the same. One guy at the conference room table is thinking about the baseball game that night, another is thinking about what he is going to eat for dinner, and the next guy, well his eyes are closed. If I could have a dollar for each time someone snoozed during a meeting, I would be rich.

Can you imagine using “affective computing” on a date? All of a sudden you see a sign that says the person is just not into you. My response would be, “Sorry, but I am leaving now. I would rather be home watching TV.”

Now that I think about it, this new developing software could be kind of scary.