The latest attraction to hit Disney Land is the Innoventions Dream Homes, Tomorrow Land. The home is the perfect example of how gadget-dependent our lives have become. Greeted by the Elias Family, the select group is then transported to a world where every aspect is intuitive and computer controlled. Although the support partners Microsoft, HP, Lifeware and architect Taylor Morrison attempt to show people how a digitalized environment can enhance many aspects of a daily family; the illusion does throw a light on how our lives maybe transformed and how we may have to rely on a “virtual hug” instead of the real thing. The Elias Family is happy that their son Robbie’s soccer goal has won the team a spot in an international game. As you get to join the celebrations, the house goes on to demonstrate how the family uses various gadgets to stay in touch, plan a party, sort out the grocery list, exchange photos and basically update each other with what’s going on in each other’s life.

On one hand, such methods of staying “in touch” and having all your needs intuitively taken care of are surreal. Obviously it is Utopia out there. Reality is quite contrary to Disney’s perception. On the other hand, there are some things in life that offer real pleasure when you manually do the task. For example, I’d rather try out a new outfit than watch my virtual-self try it out in the virtual mirror. Also I’d rather get a real gift instead of the 3-D congratulatory gift.

The Dining Room table in the house is classy; it is linked with computers and has a huge interactive surface. When the family puts their mobile phones on the table, photos and videos spill across the screens for all to see. Zoom in or pan out just like how you would use the Surface. It can be used to create artwork, do homework, and solve video puzzles.

Many such innovative integrations are added to the house. For a single moment I am tempted to join the queue. But then again, my unorganized household with its many flaws seems a better proposition. As Bruce Springsteen put it, “it’s got a bit of Human touch!”

Check out the Innoventions Dream Homes here.