{
  "id": 15928835,
  "title": "Ohio State Makes a Stink by Digitally Sending Scents",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/21/ohio-state-makes-a-stink-by-digitally-sending-scents",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-21T18:20:18.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "CNET",
    "slug": "cnet",
    "url": "https://www.cnet.com/science/new-ai-device-can-detect-and-transmit-scent/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ohio State University researchers have developed a groundbreaking system capable of detecting and transmitting scents across great distances, bringing us closer to a reality straight out of the Jetsons. The new system, outlined in a study released this week, comprises two key devices: an AI-powered e-nose and a Scentronic receiver. The e-nose analyzes the odor and sends the scent data to the Scentronic, which recreates the smell for the recipient.\n\nThe team designed several versions of the Scentronic, including a wristband, a handheld device, and a necklace. Each Scentronic features a five-channel scent distributor that utilizes a piezoelectric atomizer to spray the scents. Powering the entire system is Wi-Fi and a cloud server that stores and transfers the scent data between devices.\n\nTo test the system, researchers employed five distinct scents: cake, beer, red wine, coffee, and oranges. The e-nose successfully identified one of these aromas, transmitted it to the Scentronic, and the Scentronic accurately recreated the scent for the 16 individuals testing the system. These scents were selected for being familiar yet distinctive smells encountered in everyday life.\n\nThe technology's potential applications are vast, ranging from online shopping, where users could smell products before purchasing, to healthcare, where it could aid in diagnosing conditions like COVID-19, migraines, and pregnancy. The researchers also envision a more entertaining use case, such as remote scent sharing. Picture enjoying a meal and being able to share its aroma with a distant friend or family member, adding a new layer of immersion to long-distance communication.\n\nNotably, the Scentronic stands out from similar devices on the market, which only offer predefined smells without the ability to analyze or customize odors. Unlike its competitors, the Scentronic can both analyze scents and transmit them, thanks to its gas-sensor array combined with machine learning. This allows for a more compact sensing system that can be seamlessly integrated into wearable devices.\n\nAnother company, Osmo AI, employs AI to digitize scents by mapping them at the molecular level and synthesizing them in clear liquid cartridges for dispersion. While Osmo AI's approach provides detailed chemical information, the Scentronic is specifically designed for wearable use, making it more portable and accessible.",
  "summary": "The scent-sending technology could be used in online shopping, healhcare diagnoses and just for fun.",
  "key_points": [
    "Ohio State researchers create system to transmit scents digitally.",
    "AI-powered e-nose analyzes odors and transmits scent data.",
    "Scentronic receiver recreates scents using piezoelectric atomizers."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}