The US company iPolish has unveiled artificial fingernails whose colours can be changed at any time. The digital applications are glued on like classic acrylic nails, but can be controlled individually via an app and changed to 300 to 400 different colours in seconds using an electronic pen. According to the company, the colour adjustment is based on a technology using electro-active nanopolymers that change when an electrical voltage is applied. According to iPolish, the digital nails are free of toxic chemicals and have not been tested on animals. They are designed to give users the freedom to "express how they feel and want to look at that moment".

App instead of acrylic

With this innovation, the start-up aims to replace traditional nail polish and gel applications and offer users a new form of personalisation. The digital press-on nails are first attached in the traditional way, for example with glue or adhesive bases, and then controlled via a small activation device and a smartphone app. According to the company, the nails have been tested in continuous use for 14 days and should last for about two weeks due to nail growth. A starter kit priced at $95 can now be pre-ordered and will be delivered from June onwards.

From rocket scientists in Florida

The nails are available in "Long Squoval" and "Medium Ballerina" shapes. The starter kits contain 24 standard acrylic nails in various sizes. They also include the "Magic Pen", glue and cleaning cloth, as well as other tools, instructions for use and a QR code to activate the app. The Titusville, Florida-based company points to a twelve-year development period. The engineers and scientists behind the iPolish brand are part of the American space industry.

Sources: iPolish