UbiComp / ISWC 2026

Key Information

• Event: UbiComp/ISWC 2026 Conference
• Location: Shanghai, China
• Conference Dates: October 11-15, 2026
• Exhibition Dates: October 13-15, 2026
• Submission Deadline: June 8, 2026
• Author Notification: July 10, 2026
• Camera Ready Deadline: July 24, 2026

Exhibition Overview

ISWC 2026, the 30th annual International Symposium on Wearable Computers, will be held in conjunction with UbiComp 2026 in Shanghai China. The Design Exhibition is an integral part of the conference, showcasing original works that focus on wearable technologies and design innovations related to the human body.

Submissions are in the form of short papers (4-page excluding references) that will be included in UbiComp/ISWC 2026 Adjunct Proceedings and in the ACM Digital Library. These are not considered to be archival publications; presentation in the Design Exhibition will not affect the ability of researchers to subsequently publish this work in an archival forum as a full conference or journal paper. Authors are welcome to publish in the Design Exhibition in addition to the other calls for the conference provided the content of the publications are recognizably distinct.

As UbiComp/ISWC 2026 is expected to be a fully in-person event, all accepted submissions should have at least one author who is registered and able to travel to the conference so that they can showcase the work. The physical artifacts described in accepted papers are required to be exhibited at the conference venue. The exhibition is curated through a double-blind review process (juried exhibition).

All works will be introduced during the conference opening and featured on monitors throughout the event to promote visibility and encourage discussions. Each accepted work will receive a short presentation slot during the exhibition opening event to introduce their piece.

Exhibition Format & Requirements

Accepted works will be exhibited in an art/museum style in a co-located space. Works should fit on a pedestal, mannequin, or rack. Large stand-alone works can be accommodated if space permits. Specific display needs will be worked out upon acceptance to the exhibition.

• Technical Support: Power outlets and basic internet connectivity available upon request
• Materials Restrictions: No hazardous, flammable, or liquid materials that may damage the exhibition space

Authors of accepted submissions must:

• Attend in person to install and uninstall their artifacts
• Participate in the 40-minute Design Exhibition opening event (Date TBD)
• Present their work in a 3-minute highlight presentation during the opening

Submission Categories

We encourage submissions of works incorporating elements such as on-body sensing, sensor networks, responsive fashion technologies, body enhancements like bionic limbs and smart prosthetics, and wearables designed for professional use, mobile healthcare, entertainment, and more. Submissions that seamlessly combine functionality, aesthetics, with critical design and sustainable fabrication will be highlighted.

We encourage works that fit into one or more of the following categories:

• Functional: Wearables designed with a strong focus on practical use, addressing specific problems or needs through technological solutions. Designs should emphasize a future forward look at how advanced technologies can provide tangible benefits to all.
• Aesthetic: Wearables that emphasize visual appeal and/or artistic impact achieved through innovative technology. Designs should emphasize the imaginative and speculative side of what technologies could be.
• Sustainability: Wearable-related innovations incorporating aspects of sustainability, including both environmental and social sustainability topics. This includes things like novel fabrication and material development, accessibility, user experience, and usability.

Submission Documents

Design Paper

Authors should submit an illustrated design paper using the UbiComp/ISWC 2-column ACM proceedings template available at the UbiComp/ISWC Templates Page. The core paper—including all text and figures—must not exceed 4 pages. References do not count toward the page limit and may extend to page 5 and beyond. Appendices are not allowed.

The paper should clearly describe the concept, motivation, intended audience and end use, technological functionality, and execution details. All figures should be embedded in the document and referenced in the text. Please format all citations and references according to ACM guidelines.

Submissions must be prepared for blind review—do not include author names, affiliations, and/or other information that might make the authors identifiable.

Supporting Materials

In addition to the design paper, supporting materials are required. High-resolution images will be required for all accepted designs for the camera-ready submission and are strongly encouraged at the time of submission. These images will be used in the ISWC Design Exhibition and for promotional purposes and must be uploaded separately.

A video demonstration (maximum length of 3 minutes) is also strongly encouraged at submission time and will be required for all accepted submissions. The video should effectively showcase the functionality, purpose and design of your work.

Submission Process

Prepare your 4-page design paper using the ACM proceedings template with all author information removed for double-blind review. Submit your paper and supporting materials through the Precision Conference website at http://new.precisionconference.com/sigchi. On the submissions tab, please select SIGCHI society, the UbiComp/ISWC 2026 conference, and the “ISWC 2026 Design Exhibition” track.

Past Design Exhibitions

2024 ISWC Design Exhibition
2023 ISWC Design Exhibition
2018 ISWC Design Exhibition

Financial Support

Information regarding travel grants and exhibition support will be announced separately on the conference website.

Contact Information

The Design Exhibition Chairs are excited to work closely with prospective authors, especially those who may be unfamiliar with the submission process. We’re committed to ensuring the best possible experience for all participants. For questions, clarifications, or guidance with your submission, please don’t hesitate to email the design chairs at design-2026@ubicomp.org.