Printable Metal Tags Turn Objects into Smart, Connected Devices

Printable metal tags have been developed that could be attached to everyday objects to turn them into “smart” Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The tags are made from patterns of copper foil printed onto thin, flexible, paper-like substrates that reflect WiFi signals. The tags work essentially like mirrors that reflect radio signals from a WiFi router. When a user's finger touches the mirrors, it disturbs the reflected WiFi signals in such a way that can be remotely sensed by a WiFi receiver, like a smartphone.