An NFC movie library for my kids (simplyexplained.com)

Article summary

The author created a custom NFC movie library for their kids, allowing them to select movies by scanning NFC tags attached to laminated movie covers. The system uses an ESP32 board and Home Assistant to play the selected movie on an Apple TV. The author's goal was to recreate the tangible experience of browsing physical media, while still utilizing digital content. The system also teaches kids responsibility and autonomy in their media consumption.

Main themes

• NFC technology
• Home automation
• Parenting and education
• Digital media consumption
• Tangible user interfaces
• Child development

What commenters say

• Some commenters appreciate the project as a way to introduce kids to technology and problem-solving in a fun and interactive way.
• Others see the project as a means to limit kids' exposure to excessive screen time and promote more mindful media consumption.
• A few commenters suggest that making technology more difficult to use can actually encourage kids to learn and develop problem-solving skills.
• There is a debate about whether kids should be allowed to handle physical media, such as Blu-ray discs, with some arguing it teaches responsibility and others citing the risk of damage.
• Some commenters share their own experiences with similar projects, such as using NFC tags to control music playback or creating interactive art installations.
• Others discuss the potential drawbacks of relying on streaming services and the benefits of owning physical copies of media.
• A few commenters mention the importance of finding a balance between introducing kids to technology and protecting them from its potential negative effects.
• Some appreciate the project as a way to recreate the tactile experience of browsing physical media, while others see it as unnecessary or overly complex.