CHI 2019: "You can hire a human proxy to bring you into the conference remotely through a wearable tablet and video conferencing software"

CHI 2019:

We will be providing the opportunity for people to remotely attend the CHI conference via telepresence technologies. Our goal is to increase access to the conference for remote participants who would otherwise be unable to attend due to mobility impairments, chronic health issues, or temporary travel limitations.

You can hire a human proxy to bring you into the conference remotely through a wearable tablet and video conferencing software. The image below shows an example human proxy setup. Human proxies represent a lightweight way for you to be present and move throughout the conference venue for meeting other attendees and socializing. (Note: due to cost and venue challenges, we will not have telepresence robots – Beams – at CHI this year)

How does a human proxy work? Your human proxy (a student volunteer) will wear a tablet and connect to you via Skype. You will be able to talk with your human proxy through an earpiece that they wear and ask them to go to different places. You can also talk directly with other attendees at CHI.

Use of a human proxy will cost $30 USD for each time block that you select. A time block is generally comprised of 2 hours of time. You will be able to select as many time blocks as you like throughout the CHI schedule. By selecting a session/break time slot, you will be able to meet up with colleagues throughout the convention centre, as well as check out the CHI demos, posters, art show, go to the conference reception, and more!