A new Japanese remote control could let you start or stop your iPod with the blink of an eye, or rather, the sticking out of your tongue, if its developer has his way.

The device looks like a normal set of headphones. It’s called the “Mimi Switch” and uses a set of infrared sensors to measure movements inside the ear resulting from different facial expressions.

Its inventor, Kazuhiro Taniguchi of Osaka University said:

“You will be able to turn on room lights or swing your washing machine into action with a quick twitch of your mouth.

“An iPod can start or stop music when the wearer sticks his tongue out, like in the famous Einstein picture. If he opens his eyes wide, the machine skips to the next tune. A wink with the right eye makes it go back.

“The machine can be programmed to run with various other facial expressions, such as a wriggle of the nose or a smile.”

For those into conspiracy theories and privacy concerns, the device could be equipped to monitor your movements and determine if you’re not smiling enough, playing a cheerful tune from your iPod in response. Does this mean if you’re too happy it’ll play something dismal?

This is great, but let’s make it wireless, shall we? Bluetooth anyone?

Oh, and this could get you into trouble. I hesitate to imagine what might happen if you were to to stick out your tongue to stop your iPod in the middle of a crowded BART car.