Overview
The International Conference on Multimodal Interaction (ICMI) 2026 is inviting proposals for its Multimodal Grand Challenges, scheduled to take place from October 5 to 9, 2026, in Napoli, Italy. This event serves as a vital platform for interdisciplinary research in multimodal human-human and human-computer interactions, aiming to advance the development of adaptive and context-aware systems.
Background & Relevance
Multimodal interaction is a crucial area within human-computer interaction (HCI), focusing on how various modes of communication can be integrated to enhance user experiences. The ICMI conference brings together researchers and practitioners to explore innovative approaches that can lead to the creation of intelligent systems capable of understanding and responding to users in real-time. These advancements are essential for developing technologies that can effectively support collaborative tasks, decision-making, and learning in diverse contexts.
Key Details
- Event Dates: October 5-9, 2026
- Location: Napoli, Italy
- Proposal Submission Deadline: December 16, 2025
- Notification of Proposal Acceptance: January 30, 2026
- Grand Challenge Date: October 5, 2026
- Website: ICMI 2026
Eligibility & Participation
The call for proposals is open to teams from various disciplines related to multimodal interaction. This initiative encourages collaboration across fields, aiming to tackle significant challenges in the domain and promote innovative solutions that can enhance HCI systems.
Submission or Application Guidelines
Prospective organizers are required to submit a proposal that does not exceed five pages. The proposal must include the following elements:
1. Title of the challenge
2. Abstract suitable for web promotion
3. Specific topics and goals to be addressed
4. Detailed description of the challenge and its relevance to multimodal interaction
5. Duration of the challenge (full day or half day)
6. Plan for soliciting participation
7. Evaluation criteria for submissions and proposed reviewers
8. Schedule for dataset/system releases and submission deadlines
9. Short biographies of the organizers from multiple institutions
10. Funding sources, if applicable
11. Draft call for papers, including organizer affiliations and contact information, a summary of the challenge, and potential Technical Program Committee members.
Proposals will be assessed based on their originality, ambition, feasibility, and implementation plans. Preference will be given to challenges that include datasets or systems with pilot results demonstrating their effectiveness.
More Information
The ICMI Multimodal Grand Challenges aim to foster innovation and collaboration within the community. By addressing various categories such as data, algorithms, applications, and multidisciplinary approaches, these challenges are designed to push the boundaries of what is possible in multimodal interaction. This initiative not only supports academic growth but also seeks to enhance the quality of life through improved HCI systems.
Conclusion
Researchers and practitioners are encouraged to explore this opportunity to contribute to the ICMI 2026 Multimodal Grand Challenges. By submitting proposals, participants can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of multimodal interaction and advancing the field of HCI. For further inquiries, proposals should be directed to the challenge chairs, Sebastian Zepf and Alessandro Vinciarelli, via the provided email addresses.
Category: CFP & Deadlines
Tags: multimodal interaction, human-computer interaction, HCI, ICMI, data challenges, algorithm challenges, application challenges, multidisciplinary challenges, AI, machine learning, conference, research
