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الوسم: Wearable

  • Stay Cool Anywhere with Wearable Neck Fans—Skip the AC

    Stay Cool Anywhere with Wearable Neck Fans—Skip the AC

    Lightweight fans worn around the face or neck may help office employees stay comfortable while lowering energy consumption associated with air conditioning, according to recent research from Concordia University.

    The study indicates that small, portable personal fans can deliver nearly the same level of comfort as traditional desktop fans. Because these fans cool the person directly rather than an entire room, they could prove especially beneficial in modern office settings where only a handful of employees are present at a time.

    Many workplaces now adopt hybrid work models, meaning large office spaces may be only partially occupied. Despite this, centralized heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems often continue to cool entire spaces, leading to unnecessary energy use. Researchers suggest that personal cooling devices offer an alternative strategy. Workers could use small fans to cool themselves while the building’s HVAC system operates at a reduced, more energy-efficient setting.

    To compare effectiveness, scientists tested two wearable devices—a face fan and a neck fan—against two types of desktop fans: a traditional bladed model and a bladeless design. The choice of the face and neck was intentional, as these areas are particularly sensitive to temperature changes despite comprising only about 5.5% of the body’s surface. Cooling these specific zones can significantly boost overall comfort.

    All four devices were evaluated in a climate-controlled office environment set at 77°F (25°C). Instead of human participants, an advanced thermal manikin—divided into 23 body segments to mimic heat exchange—was used to measure skin temperature, heat loss, and thermal comfort at different fan speeds.

    As expected, the traditional bladed desk fan provided the strongest cooling overall. Nonetheless, the wearable face and neck fans performed impressively, delivering cooling effects similar to the bladeless desktop fan and maintaining comfort levels comparable to a low-setting conventional desk fan.

    The face fan was especially effective at cooling the targeted area, increasing heat loss from the face by up to seven watts. Both wearable fans managed to bring overall thermal comfort into a neutral, pleasant range.

    Aside from efficiency, these personal fans boast practical benefits—they occupy minimal space, consume relatively little power, and direct airflow specifically toward the user. This focused airflow reduces the likelihood of creating drafts that might bother nearby coworkers.

    Researchers see these devices as a potential component of wider strategies aimed at making workplaces more energy-efficient. Combining centralized cooling with personal fans tailored to individual needs could reduce the energy costs associated with conditioning large, mostly unused office areas—an approach particularly relevant as hybrid work arrangements become more prevalent.

  • Water-Powered Battery Charges Wearables and Can Destroy Devices

    Water-Powered Battery Charges Wearables and Can Destroy Devices

    Scientists have developed a new type of battery that operates using moisture from the air, instead of the liquid chemicals typically found in most batteries. This lightweight, flexible power source could potentially supply energy to wearable health trackers, smart sensors, and other compact electronics, all while being safer for users and the environment.

    Created by researchers at North Carolina State University and Rice University, their findings were published in the journal Science Advances. As many modern devices—like fitness trackers, medical monitors, and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors—require small, portable power sources, the new moisture-driven battery offers an innovative alternative to traditional lithium-ion cells. While lithium-ion batteries are effective, they tend to be heavy, rigid, and often contain flammable or toxic chemicals that can leak if damaged.

    This new design avoids those issues by absorbing water vapor from the surrounding air. Once water contacts the battery’s internal lithium chloride salts, it dissolves them, forming a saltwater electrolyte that conducts electricity. Because the battery is activated only upon exposure to air, it can stay sealed and inactive for extended periods, giving it a much longer shelf life compared to conventional batteries.

    Made from environmentally friendly materials, the battery features a magnesium anode, a silver-based cathode, and a cellulose membrane derived from plant matter. Its reliance on saltwater rather than flammable chemicals makes it safer and less harmful to the environment.

    The researchers also tackled a common challenge with flexible batteries—performance loss when stretched or bent. Inspired by pangolin scales, which are overlapping protective plates, they arranged the battery components in similar overlapping layers. This design ensures the battery maintains functionality even when subjected to stretching, twisting, or bending.

    Testing demonstrated that the battery could power a wireless Bluetooth blood oxygen monitor for up to 30 hours—comparable to many traditional batteries—highlighting its practical application potential. The team envisions this technology supporting future devices such as wearable medical tools, smart clothing, environmental sensors, tiny robots, and other interconnected electronics.

    An innovative feature of the battery is an optional “kill switch” designed for security purposes. This involves a dry mixture of aluminum and iodine powder stored separately. If someone attempts to tamper with the device, moisture from the environment activates the powder mixture, triggering a rapid chemical reaction that produces enough heat to destroy the device within minutes. In tests, a wireless gas sensor equipped with this kill switch was completely dismantled in under three minutes once triggered.

    While primarily aimed at security and intelligence applications, the main achievement lies in the battery itself. Combining flexibility, safety, biodegradability, and dependable performance, this pioneering technology has the potential to power next-generation smart devices while minimizing environmental impact.

  • MIT’s Ultrasound Heart Sticker May Replace Pacemakers in Future

    MIT’s Ultrasound Heart Sticker May Replace Pacemakers in Future

    Credit: Unsplash+



    Pacemakers have been instrumental in extending and improving the lives of millions for decades. These small devices are implanted inside the body to send electrical signals to the heart whenever its natural rhythm slows down or becomes irregular.

    Regarded as one of the most successful medical inventions, pacemakers have saved countless lives by helping maintain a steady heartbeat.


    Although effective, traditional pacemakers still require surgical implantation. Surgeons must place the device in the chest and connect wires directly to the heart. While generally safe, this procedure carries certain risks, including infections, bleeding, and complications from hardware placement. For years, scientists have sought ways to regulate heart activity without invasive surgery.

    Recently, researchers at MIT have made a significant breakthrough. They developed a compact, wearable device that uses ultrasound rather than electrical wires to stimulate the heart. This innovation could eventually lead to a fully noninvasive alternative to conventional pacemakers.

    The device resembles a small sticker that attaches to the chest, with tiny ultrasound transducers embedded inside. These transducers emit precisely controlled ultrasound waves through the chest wall toward the heart.

    Instead of electrical impulses, this system uses sound waves to influence heart cells. The ultrasound triggers the opening of specific channels on the cells, allowing calcium to flow in. Calcium entry is essential for heart contractions, signaling the cells to squeeze and generate a heartbeat.

    To enhance effectiveness, the scientists employed a technique called sonogenetics, which involves making cells more responsive to ultrasound. They genetically modified heart cells so they would react more strongly to sound stimulation, making them easier to control with low-intensity ultrasound waves.

    Initial tests were conducted in the lab with human heart cells derived from stem cells. When ultrasound was applied, the modified cells contracted in sync with the sound pulses. Their response was significantly more vigorous than that of unmodified cells.

    Following promising lab results, experiments moved to animal studies. The team created a miniature ultrasound sticker device and placed it on rats’ chests. The results were promising: the device quickly corrected abnormal heart rhythms and restored normal heartbeats without invasive surgery or direct contact with the heart tissue.

    The researchers envision a future where patients might undergo a single gene therapy session to increase heart cell sensitivity to ultrasound. Afterward, a wearable sticker could be used to manage heart rhythms as needed, potentially removing many issues linked with implanted devices.

    This research builds on previous work by the same team, who previously developed wearable ultrasound devices capable of imaging deep tissues. Their ultimate goal is to combine both technologies into a single system.

    One sticker could continuously monitor the heart and deliver treatment whenever irregular rhythms are detected, creating a closed-loop system. Such a device could identify problems early and respond automatically, potentially enhancing patient safety and reducing frequent hospital visits.

    The applications could extend beyond heart care. Since ultrasound can safely penetrate various tissues, similar devices might eventually be used to diagnose and treat disorders across different organs and systems.

    However, several hurdles remain before this technology can be used in humans. Current results are based mainly on lab and animal studies. Further research is necessary to confirm safety, effectiveness, and reliability in people. Regulatory approval and large-scale clinical trials will also be required.

    If health concerns interest you, check out recent studies on the benefits of low-dose lithium supplements, the impact of egg consumption on heart disease, and more details about potatoes, high blood pressure, and the top six breads suitable for heart health.

    The full study has been published in *Nature Biomedical Engineering*.



  • Researchers Create Cuffless Blood Pressure Monitor Watch

    Researchers Create Cuffless Blood Pressure Monitor Watch

    Blood pressure measurement has traditionally involved wrapping a cuff around the upper arm, inflating it until it compresses the artery, then gradually releasing it while readings are taken. Although this method is widely accepted and generally accurate, it has a significant limitation: it only provides a single snapshot at one moment in time.

    New research suggests this approach might overlook much of the critical information doctors need. A team from the University of Utah and the University of Illinois Chicago has developed a wearable device capable of continuously tracking blood pressure without the need for an inflatable cuff. Their findings, published in Nature Communications, could mark a major breakthrough in cardiovascular health monitoring.

    Blood pressure is often called a silent threat because individuals can have dangerously high readings without experiencing noticeable symptoms. Over time, unmanaged high blood pressure can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease, strokes, aneurysms, and kidney problems. Since blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day, medical professionals often recommend multiple measurements rather than relying on just one.

    However, current monitoring devices tend to be bulky, uncomfortable, or inconvenient, making continuous outside-of-hospital monitoring challenging. Researchers aimed to create a simpler, wearable solution similar to an ordinary smartwatch.

    Unlike some consumer devices that estimate blood pressure using light sensors—methods whose scientific accuracy is still debated—the new device employs a different strategy. It transmits a tiny electrical current through the wrist and measures changes in bioimpedance, which indicates how easily electric current passes through blood and body tissues.

    As blood flows through arteries with each heartbeat, these electrical properties shift slightly. The device captures these subtle changes and uses them to estimate blood pressure. What sets this technology apart is its blend of artificial intelligence and fundamental physical science. Instead of letting AI generate predictions unrestricted, the researchers embedded mathematical models of blood flow and electrical behavior directly into the system. This ensures the AI adheres to established physical laws when calculating blood pressure.

    According to the researchers, this approach enhances the realism and reliability of the predictions. By integrating principles from fluid dynamics and electromagnetism, the system avoids generating physically impossible results, making the estimates more trustworthy.

    The device was tested on 150 individuals, including ICU patients and outpatients, providing a broad range of data from healthy individuals and those with medical conditions. One of its most promising features is the ability to continuously record blood pressure waveforms. Traditional measurements yield only two numbers: systolic and diastolic pressures. These are important but represent just a small slice of the full picture.

    This new technology captures a continuous flow of blood pressure data over time. Think of it as watching a movie instead of a single photograph. Such detailed monitoring can detect patterns and changes associated with exercise, stress, sleep, medication, or daily activities—information that static measurements might miss.

    The potential benefits are significant for patients and healthcare providers alike. Continuous blood pressure data could improve early detection of cardiovascular issues and enable more personalized treatments. Moreover, it offers a way for individuals to monitor their health more comfortably at home rather than relying solely on periodic clinic visits.

    Despite the promising results, the technology is still in its early stages. Further studies, regulatory approval, large-scale testing, and real-world validation are necessary before this smartwatch can become commercially available.

    Nonetheless, this research underscores how innovations in engineering, mathematics, and artificial intelligence are reshaping healthcare. Its strength lies in applying scientific principles to guide AI predictions, making the results easier to interpret and Trust.

    With continued development, cuff-free blood pressure monitoring could become a practical, everyday tool that offers a richer understanding of cardiovascular health than current methods provide.

    For those concerned about high blood pressure, recent studies suggest early time-restricted eating may help, and natural options like coconut sugar could potentially reduce blood pressure and improve arterial flexibility. Additional research highlights the impact of added sugar on blood pressure and suggests vitamin D might benefit individuals with diabetes by lowering their blood pressure.

    Source: University of Utah.

  • Innovative Wearable Sensor Detects Organ Failure at Early Stage

    Innovative Wearable Sensor Detects Organ Failure at Early Stage

    Credit: Unsplash+

    For decades, physicians have depended on blood tests to assess how the body functions. These tests reveal whether organs like the liver and kidneys are healthy and if medications are working as intended. However, they only capture data at a single point in time, which can cause important changes to be overlooked.

    A recent study from researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, proposes a different strategy. Published in Science Translational Medicine, the research introduces a compact wearable device designed to continuously monitor vital substances through the skin.

    The device operates using tiny structures called microneedles—so small that they sit just beneath the skin’s surface with minimal discomfort. These microneedles are engineered to detect specific molecules by generating an electrical signal when they come into contact with them.

    What makes this sensor innovative is its enhanced design. The researchers developed a surface dotted with numerous tiny openings, significantly boosting its ability to detect molecules. This improvement grants it much higher sensitivity compared to older models and allows it to function reliably for several days without losing accuracy.

    In experiments, the team tested the device on animals, tracking how two different drugs moved through the body over time. One drug was processed by the liver, while the other was cleared by the kidneys. Monitoring these substances’ levels provided insights into how well these organs were functioning. If the drugs lingered longer than expected, it suggested potential organ impairment.

    A key finding was that the sensor could identify early warning signs of organ issues before conventional tests could. For instance, it detected early alterations related to kidney damage even when standard blood tests remained normal.

    This early detection capability is highly valuable in medical care, as it could enable healthcare providers to intervene sooner, adjusting treatments to prevent serious complications. This is critical with potent medications like chemotherapy drugs and antibiotics, which can harm organs if not carefully monitored.

    The technology also shows promise for future development. One patch could potentially host multiple sensors, each tracking different molecules to provide a comprehensive, real-time health overview.

    Another benefit lies in cost-efficiency. The device is designed to be produced at a relatively low cost, potentially making this continuous monitoring approach accessible to more people.

    Nevertheless, challenges remain. Since the study was conducted on animals, additional testing in humans is required. Researchers will also need to ensure the device remains accurate and safe during prolonged use.

    Overall, this research signifies a major shift in healthcare delivery. Instead of sporadic testing, doctors could soon continuously monitor patients, enabling earlier detection of health issues, more informed treatment decisions, and better outcomes.

    In summary, the study illustrates how emerging technology can push medicine toward a more personalized approach. Providing doctors with a clearer, ongoing view inside the body may help prevent harm and enhance treatment effectiveness. While further research is needed, the potential benefits are considerable.

    If you’re interested in health topics, consider looking into studies suggesting vitamin D might decrease the risk of autoimmune diseases or that some anti-inflammatory drugs could inhibit cancer spread.

    For additional health updates, explore recent research on which medications pose the greatest risk to your liver or how certain drugs can boost your immune system to combat cancer more effectively.

  • Scientists Create Wearable Subwoofer for Epic VR Bass

    Scientists Create Wearable Subwoofer for Epic VR Bass

    Over recent years, specialists in sensory stimulation have explored some unconventional ideas to enhance virtual reality (VR) experiences. Some researchers have examined how visuals can create the sensation of phantom touches on the skin, while others have experimented with scent and taste simulations to make virtual environments feel more real. Now, experts in Japan are focusing on bass sounds—specifically, deep bass vibrations that penetrate beneath the skin.

    ### Pushing Bass Deep Into the Skin

    Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have developed what they call a “portable, silent subwoofer,” a tiny device that electrically stimulates muscles to produce tactile sensations. The device combines low-frequency vibrations with a gentle electrical current that causes muscles to contract, creating the feeling of deep bass thumps without any bulky equipment. It’s similar in concept to bone conduction earbuds, which vibrate through the bones of the skull and transmit sound directly to the cochlea. In this case, the sensation of bass is transmitted through the abdominal muscles.

    The device consists of small patches that are adhered to the stomach area, connected to a compact wired control similar in size to a MagSafe charger. The team explains that this enables users to physically feel deep bass sounds in both virtual environments and everyday music.

    ### How It Works

    This technology employs a technique known as electrical muscle stimulation (EMS), which creates the sensation of a silent subwoofer that delivers deep bass vibrations. Essentially, vibrating transducers produce sensations that travel through the muscles and bones, allowing users to ‘feel’ the bass.

    ### The Bigger Picture

    The core components include a low-pass filter, a bass detection system, and an EMS generator. According to a study published in IEEE Access, this approach could be replicated on other parts of the body as well. One major advantage is its ability to significantly reduce ambient noise interference, providing a more immersive experience without disturbing surroundings.

    ### The Experience

    Although it might sound like an electric shock or a vibrating pin, participants who tested the device reported that it effectively conveyed the rhythm and depth of bass comparable to traditional speakers or subwoofers. The sensations delivered through the abdominal muscles created a surprisingly natural and immersive bass experience, which many found more engaging than what typical audio gear offers.

    ### Future Potential

    While the concept may seem a bit unusual at first, early tests suggest it could revolutionize how we experience sound in VR and gaming. The researchers envision further refining the technology for integration with VR headsets and controllers, creating more natural and immersive virtual environments. They believe that as the design evolves, it could deliver richer bass sensations—without loud speakers—and improve overall immersion in digital experiences.

  • Meta Smart Glasses With Built-In Display Might Cost As Much As An iPhone

    Meta Smart Glasses With Built-In Display Might Cost As Much As An iPhone

    In recent years, extended reality (XR) devices have surged in popularity, and as their technology advances, prices have increased significantly. For instance, Apple’s Vision Pro is priced at $3,500, while Meta’s Quest Pro is available for $1,500. Smart glasses, particularly those with built-in displays, are also gradually climbing in cost.

    However, Meta appears to be challenging this trend with its upcoming next-generation smart glasses, expected later this year, which may be more affordable than initially projected. Inside sources suggest Meta has managed to reduce the retail price to approximately $800. This adjustment seems to be part of a strategy to lower profit margins temporarily in order to boost consumer demand— a tactic often used when launching new tech products, according to Bloomberg.

    ### How Do Meta’s Smart Glasses Function?

    Currently in development under the code name “Hypernova,” Meta initially aimed to sell these glasses at around $1,000, with some estimates suggesting a price closer to $1,400. The confirmed lower price point, around $800, positions Meta’s device in the same market segment as the iPhone 16, and potentially the upcoming iPhone 17.

    Meta’s approach with these glasses is reminiscent of Google Glass, featuring a monocular display embedded in the lower section of the right lens. Unlike some smart glasses from brands like RayNeo, Viture, and Xreal that sport dual displays, Meta’s “Hypernova” only presents information on the right eye — mostly when the user looks downward, as Bloomberg reports. Powering the device is Qualcomm silicon, and it will come equipped with applications for capturing photos, viewing media, navigating maps, and managing notifications.

    ### What Sets These Glasses Apart?

    Meta is targeting these glasses as a next-generation personal computing device, aiming to serve as an alternative to smartphones, particularly in the U.S. market where iPhones dominate. Smart glasses from other companies, such as Xreal and Viture, usually fall into the $400 to $600 price range, comparable to the new AI glasses like the Even G1 that utilize optical projector technology.

    Additionally, Meta plans to enhance user interaction through a neural wristband, allowing control of the glasses via wrist gestures and hand movements. This concept isn’t entirely new—smartwatches like Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 8 have already integrated gesture-based navigation. The wristband will be bundled with the glasses, improving the ease of control.

    ### Operating System and Connectivity

    The upcoming glasses are expected to run a specialized version of Android, though they might lack a dedicated app store, instead relying on touch and swipe gestures on the side frame for control. This usability feature would be a significant selling point, especially if Meta ensures seamless notification access from paired smartphones.

    However, Meta’s plans seem to diverge from Google’s initiatives. While Google is also developing AR glasses based on the Android XR platform, Meta’s “Hypernova” will likely rely heavily on the Meta View app for phones. The glasses are anticipated to launch within a month, and it will be interesting to see how they incorporate AI features—especially when compared to Google’s Gemini platform designed for wearables.

    Overall, these developments suggest a competitive and rapidly evolving landscape for smart glasses, with Meta positioning itself as a major player by offering advanced features at a more accessible price point.

  • Death Stranding 2 Has A Wearable But Its Purpose Is Unknown

    Death Stranding 2 Has A Wearable But Its Purpose Is Unknown

    In a move that embodies the iconic style of Hideo Kojima, enthusiasts of Death Stranding 2 can now own a stunning replica of the game’s Ring Terminal. Crafted from a blend of brass and steel alloy, this ring boasts an adjustable band, making it suitable for nearly any finger size. Plus, it features NFC technology, which supposedly creates a direct connection to the immersive world of Death Stranding 2. However, its actual functionality remains a bit of a mystery.

    This piece serves primarily as a beautifully crafted collectible for passionate fans. The ring is a precise 1:1 replica of those worn by characters Sam Porter Bridges and Fragile, with Kojima himself actively involved in the design process to ensure its authenticity. The ring’s silver hue is achieved through an electroplating method that mimics its in-game portrayal.

    Boasting over 30 intricate components, including minuscule screws that hold everything together, the Ring Terminal exemplifies impressive engineering. This complexity allows for easy adjustments, fitting fingers ranging from 1.74 to 2.94 inches in diameter—equivalent to U.S. ring sizes from 3 to 15.


    Image used with permission by copyright holder

    Although the Ring Terminal includes a display, it is non-functional, merely representing what it could show if it were operational. So, you shouldn’t expect to use it to check your real-world cargo, though that would be an intriguing feature.

    If you’re thinking about adding the Ring Terminal to your collection, it will be available for preorder tonight at 10 PM ET through the Anicorn Watches website. A word of caution: it’ll set you back $240, but it does come packaged in a stylish Death Stranding 2-themed case—a nod to what porters like Bridges and Fragile Express might receive after decades of service.

    Ironically, the ring’s true purpose remains undefined, which aligns perfectly with Kojima’s enigmatic style. But we can venture some amusing theories:

    • It pulls the wearer into a competitive arena, much like “Kojima Squid Games.”
    • It connects you directly to a group chat featuring Kojima, Norman Reedus, and Mads Mikkelsen.
    • It grants access to Kojima’s hidden Letterboxd and MyAnimeList profiles.
    • It leads to a clandestine Tumblr page detailing the intricacies of the Metal Gear Solid narrative.

    Ultimately, the truth behind the ring is anyone’s guess. And if a ring isn’t quite enough for you, a Death Stranding 2 watch is also up for grabs.

  • Acer Is Creating A Smart Ring The Right Way

    Acer Is Creating A Smart Ring The Right Way

    Acer is making a splash at this year’s Computex event in Taipei with some standout technology. Their offerings include the Swift Edge 14 AI, which is impressively lighter than the MacBook Air, and the stylish Predator Triton 14 AI gaming laptop, both of which have caught a lot of attention.

    What took many by surprise was Acer’s venture into wearables, specifically smart rings. The company introduced the Acer FreeSense, a lightweight smart ring packed with health-tracking features, and it brings an unexpected bonus.

    What Makes Acer’s Smart Ring Unique?

    Acer FreeSense smart ring in rose gold color.
    Acer

    The FreeSense ring stands out because it doesn’t require a subscription, unlike many competitors like Amazfit, Samsung, UltraHuman, and RingConn. As Acer points out, users have unrestricted access to all health data without hidden fees. This is certainly a relief for many consumers.

    Related
    • Discover how Circular Ring 2 monitors blood pressure right on your finger.

    Oura has long been a leader in the smart ring market, yet its subscription model has raised eyebrows. Many users feel that after purchasing the device, paying an additional fee for full health features is unjustifiable.

    Acer’s FreeSense hits the mark

    While extra features like guided workouts may come at a premium, subscriptions aren’t essential in the wearable tech realm. Recently, Whoop faced criticism for shifting its subscription policy, leading to a quick reversal in strategy.

    Additional Features of the FreeSense

    Acer FreeSense smart ring in two colors.
    Acer

    Weighing in at just over two grams, the FreeSense is available in seven sizes. Crafted from titanium alloy with a vacuum-coated finish, it offers durability and comes in rose gold with a matte finish or glossy black. Additionally, it has an IP68 waterproof rating, meaning it can handle being submerged without a problem.

    When it comes to health monitoring, the FreeSense can track heart rate, heart rate variability, and blood oxygen levels. It also offers detailed sleep analysis, including stage tracking, and delivers personalized wellness reports through its companion app based on gathered biometrics.

    While Acer hasn’t disclosed the exact pricing yet, it’s expected to fall within the $300 to $400 range considering its features. Competing products like the Circular Ring 2 start at $239 but can reach up to $549 for advanced capabilities like ECG and blood pressure monitoring.

  • Oura Advisor Is Your Personal Health Coach On Your Finger

    Oura Advisor Is Your Personal Health Coach On Your Finger

    The Oura Advisor feature has officially launched for all users of the Oura Ring Gen 3 and Gen 4, although it may not yet be available on every device. This innovative program utilizes the data collected by your Oura Ring and converts it into straightforward, comprehensible insights.

    “Advisor acts as your personal health and wellness assistant within the app,” explains Johanna Still, UX Writing Manager and Head of Insights at Oura. “It clarifies your data—whether regarding sleep, activity, or recovery patterns—by providing context and insights that extend beyond the metrics alone.”

    Oura Advisor enables users to quickly assess long-term health trends. For instance, it can highlight sleep issues you may have overlooked. With its AI capabilities, you can pose questions such as, “Why am I feeling so fatigued today? I thought my sleep was solid.” or “What actions can I take to increase my energy levels?”

    The Oura Spotlight screen on a smartphone.
    Image used with permission from the copyright holder

    You also have the option to tailor how Oura Advisor communicates with you. If a warm and friendly tone is more your style, you can select the “conversational” mode. Alternatively, you might prefer the “direct” mode, which has a firmer, more trainer-like approach. Additionally, you can decide how frequently you want to receive prompts, choosing from daily, three times a week, weekly, or opting out completely.

    Still notes that while Oura Advisor is valuable, it is still developing. “Think of Advisor as a new team member that has a lot to learn,” she remarks. Although it may not always deliver the right answers, it has the potential to adapt and improve over time. As you continue to use it and your Oura Ring collects more health data, the insights from Advisor will become increasingly beneficial.

  • Pebble, The Original Smartwatch, Is Making A Comeback

    Pebble, The Original Smartwatch, Is Making A Comeback

    The visionary behind the Pebble smartwatch—widely considered the pioneer of the smartwatch revolution upon its release in 2012—is making a comeback to create a true successor. In a recent blog update posted on his personal website, Eric Migicovsky declared, “A small team and I are diving back into the world of hardware to bring Pebble back!”

    This announcement coincides with Google’s recent move to open-source the original Pebble smartwatch software, known as PebbleOS. This development enables passionate Pebble users to adapt the software for compatibility with today’s smartphones and systems more easily. A dedicated community already exists to support the ongoing functionality of Pebble smartwatches, and the introduction of an open-source library is expected to enhance the usability of older devices.

    Migicovsky elaborated on his vision for the forthcoming smartwatch, stating, “The new device we are developing will essentially retain the same specifications and features as the original Pebble, but with some exciting new elements. It operates on open-source PebbleOS and will be compatible with all existing Pebble apps and watchfaces. If you were a fan of Pebble, this upcoming smartwatch will be perfect for you.”

    He further outlined the “core set of features” he envisions for this smartwatch, emphasizing the importance of an always-on, e-paper display that remains visible in sunlight while being less power-hungry than traditional OLED or LCD screens. He also mentioned the inclusion of physical buttons on the device and a straightforward user interface built on “hackable” software. Among his aspirations is the ability for developers to create custom watch faces for users. While these features are part of his wishlist, it is highly likely they will be incorporated into the final product.

    Migicovsky refers to the initiative as a “Pebble replacement”—although it remains uncertain whether the original name will be retained. Pebble was sold to Fitbit, which was subsequently acquired by Google. While the software has become open-source, obtaining the rights to the Pebble name might prove to be a challenge. In addition to Google’s interest, another smartwatch company is also branding its watches under the Pebble name.

    At this stage, Migicovsky is focusing on finalizing the product specifications and roadmap before revealing purchasing details. He concluded with the assertion that the new smartwatch will closely resemble the original Pebble “in almost every way,” a sentiment likely to resonate with longtime enthusiasts. However, with the smartwatch market evolving since Pebble’s heyday from 2012 to 2016, the landscape now includes a broader array of options, ranging from Casio’s G-Shock DW-H5600 to the Apple Watch Series 10.

    In the time since Pebble’s decline, Migicovsky has launched Beeper, a universal messaging app that enables iMessage functionality on Android while mitigating the associated blue bubble/green bubble conflict, all while preserving user privacy. In 2024, Beeper was acquired by Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.

  • Apple Watch Series 10 (X): Release, Specs, Price, Features

    Apple Watch Series 10, the most advanced smartwatch yet, with a new S10 chip, an always-on display, and improved health tracking features.

    The Apple Watch has become a staple in the wearable technology market, with each new iteration bringing exciting features and improvements. As we eagerly await the release of the Apple Watch Series 10, let’s delve into what we can expect from this highly anticipated device.

    Release Date

    Apple has been consistent with its annual release cycle for the Apple Watch, typically unveiling new models in September. Therefore, it is safe to assume that the Apple Watch Series 10 will be announced in September 2025.

    However, it is important to note that Apple has not officially confirmed the release date at the time of writing.

    Apple Watch ModelRelease Date
    Series 3September 12, 2017
    Series 4September 12, 2018
    Series 5September 10, 2019
    Series 6September 15, 2020
    Series 7September 14, 2021
    Series 8September 7, 2022
    Series 9September 2023 (predicted)
    Series 10September 2024 (predicted)

    Will there be a new Apple Watch Ultra 10?

    Rumors have been circulating about the possibility of a new Apple Watch Ultra 10. While Apple has not made any official announcements regarding this model, it is not uncommon for the company to introduce different variations of its flagship product.

    If the Apple Watch Ultra 10 does come to fruition, we can expect it to offer enhanced features and capabilities compared to the standard Series 10.

    Will there be a new Apple Watch SE 2?

    Similar to the Apple Watch Ultra 10, there have been speculations about the release of a new Apple Watch SE 2. The Apple Watch SE was introduced as a more affordable alternative to the flagship models, offering many of the same features at a lower price point. If Apple decides to continue with this strategy, we may see an Apple Watch SE 2 alongside the Series 10.

    Price

    As with previous iterations, the price of the Apple Watch Series 10 will likely vary depending on the model and configuration. The starting price for the base model is expected to be around $399, while higher-end models with additional features could reach up to $500 or more.

    The price of the Apple Watch Ultra 10 and Apple Watch SE 2, if released, will likely fall within a similar range.

    Apple Watch ModelPrice (US)Price (Euro)
    Series 3$199€229
    Series 4$399€429
    Series 5$399€449
    Series 6$399€429
    Series 7$399€429
    Series 8$399€449
    Series 9 (predicted)$499€499
    Series 10 (predicted)$499€520

    Please note that the prices in Euro are predicted based on the consistent pricing strategy observed in previous releases. Actual prices may vary depending on market conditions and other factors.

    watchOS 11

    The Apple Watch Series 10 will undoubtedly come preloaded with the latest version of Apple’s operating system for wearables, watchOS 11. This new software update is expected to bring a range of improvements and new features to enhance the user experience.

    Apple Watch
    Photo by: JonChanLondon

    From enhanced Siri capabilities to improved fitness tracking, watchOS 11 will likely offer a seamless and intuitive interface for Apple Watch users.

    New Features

    Design:

    The Apple Watch Series 10 is expected to feature a sleek and refined design, building upon the aesthetics of its predecessors. While specific details are scarce, we can anticipate a continuation of the iconic rectangular shape with rounded edges, along with various customizable bands and finishes to suit individual preferences.

    Health Sensors:

    gray and back circuit illustration
    Photo by Mathew Schwartz

    Apple has always prioritized health and fitness features in their smartwatches, and the Series 10 will likely take it a step further. Rumors suggest that the Series 10 will introduce advanced health sensors, including blood glucose monitoring, body temperature tracking, and improved heart rate monitoring. These features will provide users with valuable insights into their overall well-being.

    Ultra MicroLED Display:

    One of the most exciting rumored features of the Apple Watch Series 10 is the introduction of an Ultra MicroLED display. This display technology offers improved brightness, contrast, and power efficiency compared to traditional OLED displays. Users can expect a more vibrant and immersive viewing experience, making it easier to read notifications, view apps, and interact with the device.

    6G:

    With the advent of 5G technology, it is highly likely that the Apple Watch Series 10 will support 6G connectivity. This will enable faster data speeds, smoother streaming, and improved overall performance. Users can expect seamless connectivity and enhanced experiences when using their Apple Watch for various tasks, such as streaming music, making calls, and accessing apps.

    Micro Action Button:

    Another rumored feature of the Apple Watch Series 10 is the inclusion of a Micro Action Button. This button is said to provide users with quick and convenient access to frequently used functions, such as activating Siri, controlling music playback, or launching specific apps. The addition of this button will further streamline the user experience and make navigation more intuitive.

    In conclusion, the Apple Watch Series 10 is set to be an impressive addition to Apple’s wearable lineup.

    With its anticipated release in September 2025, users can look forward to a refined design, advanced health sensors, an Ultra MicroLED display, 6G connectivity, and the convenience of a Micro Action Button.

    As always, Apple continues to push the boundaries of innovation, providing users with a smartwatch that seamlessly integrates into their daily lives.