Wearable Technology

Current research on flexible electronics is paving the way for wireless sensors that can be worn on the body and collect a variety of medical data. But where do the data go? Without a similar flexible transmitting device, these sensors would require wired connections to transmit health data.

COROS Wearables Inc have announced a partnership with performance coach Shane Benzie, and Running Reborn. The partnership aims to develop further research into the scientific field of Vertical Oscillation, as well as to educate on the benefits of training with COROS Running Dynamics by pairing this data with professional movement techniques to ensure that training and recovery are optimised.

It is not uncommon to have a favorite bra, or a lucky pair of pants. Now, innovations in E-Textiles and Smart Clothing have taken this phenomenon to the next level. Imagine a pair of pants that can play your party playlist when you get too sad, or a bra that can turn down the thermostat when your indoor workout raises your temperature.

Researchers have succeeded for the first time in measuring brain waves directly via a cochlear implant. These brainwaves indicate in an objective way how good or bad a person's hearing is. The research results are important for the further development of smart hearing aids.

Researchers have designed an AI-powered, voice-activated backpack that can help the visually impaired navigate and perceive the world around them. The backpack helps detect common challenges such as traffic signs, hanging obstacles, crosswalks, moving objects and changing elevations, all while running on a low-power, interactive device.

OPPO has announced the launch of the OPPO Band, the smartphone brand's first wearable device designed to enhance and improve the fitness experience. It's the newest addition to OPPO's smart device line and follows the success of the OPPO Watch series last year.

Replacements for active RFID improve range but retain a problem of life being limited by battery life. Energy harvesting is slowly being adopted to reduce the problem but weight, size and cost are issues.

If it becomes possible to affordably harvest energy in the available space as fast as it is consumed, the battery life problems with most wearables will be solved.

On 22 - 24th of March 2021 IDTechEx attended (virtually) the LOPEC conference, organised by the European Organic Electronics Association (OEA). This premium article reviews a selection of the most interesting and/or commercially relevant talks.