Combining the real-time interaction commonly associated with web-based video chat with the independence of a remotely operated vehicle, AT has become a novel method for human interaction, helping connect people in schools, museums, corporate environment and events. By the late 1990s the Sparky series had grown to include a wide range of technologies to enable face-to-face interaction, These include the development of unique software and code, as well as the inclusion of Internet, Wi-Fi, and other technologies. AT was featured at the 2007 Interactive Television of Tomorrow show, as well as the American Film Institute Digital Content Festival the same year. AT and Sparky were recently showcased on The History Channel's Modern Marvels program as the future of the telephone. See also Telepresence Open-source robotics References Sparky Jr. Project Hybridity Telepresence Computer-mediated communication