Tag Archives: Health

.lumen: A new era of navigation for the visually impaired @ CES 2024

February 1, 2024AI, CES 2024, Healthai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgets, glasses, Health, visually imparedPLUGHITZ Live

.lumen visually impaired guidance Technology has the power to transform the lives of people with disabilities, providing them with greater independence and opportunities. Haptic feedback glasses for the visually impaired are a groundbreaking development designed to uplift the lives of these individuals. Cornel Amariei, the CEO and founder of .lumen, is committed to creating glasses that mimic the primary functions of a guide dog.

Glasses for blind with haptic feedback

One of the major issues facing blind people is the limited availability of guide dogs, with only 28,000 dogs serving the 40 million blind people worldwide. The cost of training a guide dog, which amounts to around $70,000, and the extensive effort required from blind individuals make guide dogs a non-scalable solution. To address this issue, .lumen has developed glasses that utilize self-driving technology and a patented haptic feedback interface.

The .lumen glasses function similarly to a guide dog, pulling the user’s head instead of their hand. The haptic feedback creates the sensation of something holding and pulling the head in the direction the user needs to go, avoiding obstacles and ensuring safety. The company has been testing with over 250 blind individuals internationally and has shown the glasses to be incredibly effective, even surpassing the capabilities of guide dogs.

In terms of functionality, the .lumen glasses can be directed to guide the user to specific locations or provide general guidance. The glasses compute obstacle positions a hundred times per second, ensuring seamless navigation. The haptic feedback on the forehead provides intuitive guidance, allowing blind individuals to navigate their surroundings without the need for a physical guide.

Why haptic feedback instead of audio alerts

The decision to incorporate haptic feedback into the glasses was driven by the desire to provide non-intrusive yet informative feedback. Blind individuals heavily rely on their hearing, so audio feedback was deemed unsuitable. By utilizing haptics, .lumen ensures that the feedback is intuitive and easily understandable. The head was chosen as the feedback location due to its natural inclination to turn and gather information about the surroundings.

Similar to guide dogs, which do not bark when there is an obstacle but rather guide the individual around it, the glasses use haptics to gently steer the user. The glasses are engineered to handle complex outdoor challenges, such as distinguishing between the sidewalk and the road, through extensive AI training and data analysis.

The decision to develop glasses with haptic feedback stemmed from the desire to address the limitations of guide dogs and provide a scalable solution for the millions of blind individuals who cannot have access to a guide dog. Amariei’s passion for improving the lives of blind individuals is evident in his dedication to creating a product that not only replicates the capabilities of guide dogs but also exceeds them in some cases.

The origins of .lumen

Amariei shares his personal experience growing up in a family of people with disabilities and how it inspired them to create technology specifically for this community. He mentions that he comes from Eastern Europe, specifically Transylvania, where he witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

However, he also recognized the potential of technology to address these challenges. Coming from a background in automotive, specifically autonomous driving, he understood the capabilities of technology and saw an opportunity to create something better.

Conclusion: Haptics make for a safer and scalable experience

It is important to note that, in terms of price, it is not intended for the blind individuals themselves to pay for it. Instead, they are exploring reimbursement and subsidy programs, such as those found in Europe, to ensure that the technology is accessible and affordable for those who need it.

In conclusion, the development of glasses for the blind with haptic feedback represents a significant advancement in assistive technology. These glasses have the potential to transform the lives of blind individuals by providing them with a reliable, intuitive, and scalable solution for navigation and obstacle avoidance. With further advancements in technology and increased accessibility, glasses like Lumen’s have the power to empower blind individuals and enable them to live more independent and fulfilling lives.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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ElliQ: AI companion to alleviate loneliness in older adults @ CES 2024

January 28, 2024AI, CES 2024, Health, Roboticsaging, ai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, elder care, gadgets, HealthPLUGHITZ Live

ElliQ companion robot for elderly Intuition Robotics is a company that has created an AI-driven companion named ElliQ. This innovative product is designed to combat feelings of loneliness and social isolation in older adults. It aims to promote health and activity, supporting seniors as they continue to live independently.

AI companion for elderly adults

Loneliness among the elderly is a significant issue in the country. It has been declared a public health crisis by the Surgeon General of the United States, as it surpasses obesity and drug abuse as the leading cause of death among older adults. It is emphasized that there is a shortage of young people who can spend quality time with the elderly on a daily basis.

The impact of loneliness on the health of elderly individuals is immense. Loneliness can have detrimental effects on physical and mental well-being, and it is often underestimated. The story of a customer whose husband passed away after 65 years of marriage is shared to illustrate the profound impact of loneliness. ElliQ’s ability to greet her, compliment her appearance, and encourage her to go out and be socially active has transformed her life, giving her a reason to get dressed and engage with the world.

Intuition Robotics recognized the potential for technology to address this issue and created ElliQ as a solution. However, they wanted their product to be more than just a monitoring device or a prompt-based AI assistant like Alexa. They aimed to create a true friend and companion for the elderly. To achieve this, the device spends material amounts of time with the older adult, remembers past conversations, initiates conversations, and helps the individual achieve their own goals towards healthier aging and social connectivity.

Unlike prompt-driven AI, ElliQ actively engages in conversations and prompts the individual for information and action. It classifies and remembers conversations, using them to create future interactions. For example, it may ask about sleep quality, remind the individual of previous pain, and suggest breathing exercises. It can also take physical or digital actions, such as creating tailored stress reduction exercises or arranging video conferences with loved ones or healthcare professionals.

ElliQ versus wearables

Wearables can be a great way to track health statistics in kids and adults. However, older adults are less likely to wear these devices, partially because they are unaccustomed to them and partially because they might simply forget to put them on.

While ElliQ is not a wearable device itself, it can be seen in a comparable place in the sense that it interacts with the user and provides a physical presence. Nevertheless, the hope is that as wearables have become more popular among younger people, ElliQ can provide similar capabilities for older people while adding the benefit of a companion’s personality.

A powerful but affordable companion

One might assume that an AI-enabled robot like ElliQ would come with a high price tag. However, CEO Dor Skuler reveals that ElliQ is surprisingly affordable, with a monthly charge between $50 and $60. This makes it accessible to a wider range of individuals and families who are seeking a solution to combat loneliness among their elderly loved ones.

The affordability of ElliQ is further enhanced by the fact that many local state and government organizations are funding the product. In certain areas, such as New York and most counties in Florida, ElliQ can be obtained for free, paid for by agencies like the Office for the Aging. Additionally, Medicare and Medicaid companies are also distributing ElliQ to their population, recognizing the positive impact it can have on mental health and overall well-being.

Conclusion: ElliQ can help older adults feel less lonely

In summary, AI-enabled robots like ElliQ have been shown to effectively alleviate loneliness among the elderly. The importance of tackling this issue is underscored, and the cost-effectiveness and easy accessibility of ElliQ are high. ElliQ offers more than just assistance; it provides companionship, support, and a proactive presence, becoming a genuine friend and confidant for older adults. Through its interactions and features, ElliQ not only enhances mental well-being but also has the potential to positively influence physical health and overall life quality for the elderly. To learn more about ElliQ or to get one for yourself or a loved one, check out the company’s website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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Lexilens: Breaking down barriers and transforming dyslexia @ CES 2024

January 28, 2024AI, CES 2024, Healthces2024, dyslexia, gadgets, HealthPLUGHITZ Live

Lexilens smart dyslexia treatment A groundbreaking product has been developed to enhance reading capabilities for people with dyslexia. This product, called Lexilens, is a pair of electronic glasses powered by a battery and features active lenses that interact with the brain’s visual processing, not just the eyesight. By adjusting and fine-tuning how the brain deciphers signals from the eyes, these glasses facilitate a more lucid and smooth reading experience for those with dyslexia.

ABEYE, the company behind these innovative glasses, aims to address the challenges faced by dyslexic individuals in reading and learning. Dyslexia is a common learning disability that affects the ability to read, write, and spell. It can lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and difficulties in academic and professional settings.

Glasses that improve dyslexia reading

The idea behind Lexilens is based on a scientific discovery made in 2017 by an academic at a university. The discovery highlighted certain vision mechanisms that cause crowding and make reading difficult for dyslexic people. Over three years of research and development, the glasses were designed to leverage this discovery and reverse engineer the vision process to improve reading fluency.

The technology behind the glasses involves active lenses that hash the light with specific parameters and settings. These settings are calibrated to the individual wearer using a smartphone during the initial setup. The glasses then actively filter the light to eliminate the crowding effect and provide a clear and detached view of letters, making reading easier and more understandable for dyslexic individuals. Lexilens is such a major advancement that the glasses received an Innovation Award at CES, indicating recognition and validation of their effectiveness. The glasses are lightweight, weighing only 35 grams, and are available in three sizes: small for kids, medium, and large.

The importance of improved understanding

What sets these glasses apart is their ability to not only improve reading ease but also enhance comprehension. Michael Kodochian, CEO of ABEYE who developed Lexilens, emphasizes that dyslexic individuals often struggle to understand what they read due to the noisy input caused by the crowded vision. By eliminating the crowding, the glasses provide a clearer input to the brain, reducing cognitive load and allowing for better multitasking and comprehension.

While it is important for all ages, addressing dyslexia in children is especially important, as they often face additional challenges and stigmatization. By providing a solution that is easy to use and does not require a smartphone, Lexilens aims to empower dyslexic children and help them succeed in school.

Kodochian also mentions that the technology has been integrated into a computer screen or monitor, eliminating the need for wearing glasses. This development further expands the accessibility and usability of the technology for dyslexic individuals.

An easy to use solution for dyslexia

Adjusting Lexilens to the individual wearer is a straightforward process that involves connecting them to a smartphone via Bluetooth and using a dedicated app to tune the settings. The wearer can answer a series of questions and choose values that correspond to their specific needs, allowing for a personalized and optimized reading experience.

Similar to an eye exam, users can select their optimal settings by comparing different options. Once the settings are chosen, they are stored in the glasses, eliminating the need for a smartphone. This user-friendly approach makes the glasses accessible to individuals of all ages, including children.

Conclusion: Lexilens makes reading and comprehension easier for those with dyslexia

In conclusion, ABEYE introduces a groundbreaking product – glasses that improve reading for individuals with dyslexia called Lexilens. These glasses leverage scientific discoveries to modify the brain’s interpretation of visual signals, eliminating crowding and improving reading fluency and comprehension. With recognition and awards, the glasses offer a promising solution for dyslexic individuals, providing them with a clearer and more enjoyable reading experience. Lexilens is available now from the company’s website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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Invoxia Minitailz: AI-powered pet tracker monitors health @ CES 2024

January 27, 2024AI, CES 2024, Healthces2024, gadgets, Health, location, pet, trackingPLUGHITZ Live

Invoxia Minitailz pet health tracker Clément Moreau, CEO of Invoxia, shares the latest on upgrades to their classic pet trackers at CES 2024. Their 3rd generation Minitailz pet tracker includes AI technology in the device, cloud, and application. The device has been redesigned to be small and lightweight, can attach to any type of pet collar, on any size dog, and has a battery life of 2 to 4 weeks, depending on activity levels.

Invoxia 3rd-gen pet trackers barking up the right tree

The Invoxia app is compatible with iPhone or Android phones, and not only tracks the location of the pet but also monitors its health and activity levels. Metrics such as heart rate, breathing, and disease detection are available, providing valuable information for dog owners who want to ensure their pets are healthy and happy. The app also tracks the pet’s activity level, helping owners understand the amount of exercise their dog needs to maintain happiness.

Minitailz pet tracker health monitoring features

One of the key features of the Invoxia device is its ability to monitor a dog’s heart rate. In a thorough study conducted on more than 200 dogs, the device was found to have a 97% accuracy rate in extracting data compared to the data that a vet could check. This high level of accuracy is impressive and reassures pet owners that their dog’s heart rate is being accurately monitored.

In addition to heart rate monitoring, the pet trackers also track a dog’s activity levels. Similar to a Fitbit for humans, the device helps pet owners understand how much exercise their dog is getting daily. This information is beneficial for dog owners with busy schedules who may not be able to provide their dogs with as much exercise as they would like. By knowing their dog’s activity levels, pet owners can make adjustments to ensure their dog is getting the appropriate amount of exercise to keep them healthy and happy.

More than just an activity tracker

The Minitailz pet tracker can also help detect diseases in dogs. This is particularly helpful for pet owners who have dogs with behavioral or age-related problems. Leaving their home can be difficult for these individuals, but with the Invoxia device, they can have peace of mind knowing that their dog’s health is being monitored.

The Minitailz is not only beneficial for pet owners but also for the dogs themselves. By providing valuable insights into a dog’s health and activity levels, pet owners can make informed decisions to keep their animals healthier and happier. This device helps pet owners understand their dog’s needs and allows them to provide the appropriate care and attention.

Pet tracking beyond the backyard

Invoxia’s Minitailz pet tracker works in works in 40 different countries, enabling pet owners to track their pets even when traveling abroad and providing innovative solutions for pet owners worldwide. In addition, the upcoming introduction of a cat-specific version of the device further expands the reach of Invoxia’s technology, catering to a wider range of pet owners.

Invoxia also produces trackers for other services such as cars, motorbikes, bikes, and even for tracking children or elderly people. Unlike Bluetooth-based trackers like AirTags, Invoxia’s trackers use GPS and GSM technology, allowing for countrywide and worldwide tracking.

Minitailz pet tracker: How to fetch it

Minitailz is available for purchase on Invoxia’s website, Amazon, and other retailers. It has a retail price of $99 and requires a monthly subscription of $8.50.

Conclusion: Minitailz can help you keep your pet healthy and happy

Invoxia’s AI-powered pet tracker is a game-changer in the world of pet health monitoring. With its accurate heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, and disease detection capabilities, this device provides pet owners with valuable insights into their dog’s well-being, helping assure pet owners that their dogs are receiving the appropriate care and attention to keep them healthy and happy. Invoxia’s commitment to innovation and its availability in multiple countries further solidify its position as a leader in the pet health monitoring industry.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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myrow: Transforming the Concept 2 rower with connected tech @ CES 2024

January 27, 2024CES 2024, Gadgets, Healthces2024, connected device, gadgets, HealthPLUGHITZ Live

myrow connected rowing myrow is a company that aims to transform the Concept 2 Rowing Machine into a connected fitness device. The CEO and founder, Gary Simpson, came up with the idea during the pandemic when he found himself using the Concept 2 machine more frequently. However, he felt that the machine’s four-inch by four-inch monitor was boring and lacked engagement. He searched for apps that could enhance his rowing experience but found nothing that provided a fully integrated experience like a connected fitness bike.

myrow transforms Concept 2 into connected fitness

Recognizing the need for a more immersive and interactive rowing experience, Simpson decided to build a tablet add-on product for the Concept 2 Rowing Machine. The myrow tablet is a 22-inch tablet that offers all the content and features typically found in a connected fitness machine. By connecting the tablet to the Concept 2 machine’s monitor, users can access a more engaging and intuitive interface. The tablet displays workout data in a meaningful and useful way, eliminating the need to navigate through multiple buttons on the Concept 2 monitor.

One of the key advantages of the myrow tablet is its ability to provide real-time analytics and performance data. This feature is particularly beneficial for rowers who want to improve their technique and track their progress. Rowing is a learned technique that requires proper form and stroke metrics. By following along with instructors and mimicking their movements, users can learn and refine their rowing technique. The tablet provides visual cues, audio instructions, and even form guidance, such as the force curve, to help users optimize their workouts.

Additionally, myrow offers the option for coaches to deliver specific workouts through the Create Your Own Workout Custom Workout feature. Users can also share their workouts with friends, allowing for a collaborative and supportive fitness community. This flexibility in workout options and the ability to share and receive workouts from others adds to the overall versatility and inclusivity of myrow.

Beyond its instructional features, the myrow tablet also offers a range of other options for experienced rowers who prefer non-video workouts. The application includes preset workouts, the ability to create custom workouts, group rowing sessions with friends who also have the tablet, and training plans. This versatility caters to rowers of all skill levels and preferences.

Training virtually with friends

One of the key features of myrow is its ability to facilitate virtual rowing with friends. Through an internet connection, users can row together and see each other’s stats and metrics on the screen. This allows for friendly competition and the ability to set up group rows at any time and date of their choosing. This feature is particularly useful because it enables rowers to continue training year-round, even in adverse weather conditions such as winter with ice. Instead of relying on traditional biometric trackers in a lab setting, myrow provides real-time metric data for each individual person.

Conclusion: myrow enhances the at-home rowing experience

Overall, myrow’s goal is to enhance the Concept 2 Rowing Machine’s capabilities and provide users with a connected fitness experience. By integrating a larger and more interactive tablet, myrow transforms the Concept 2 into a fully immersive and engaging fitness device. Whether users want to follow along with instructors, track their performance data, or simply enjoy a challenging workout, myrow offers a comprehensive solution for rowers of all levels.

As for pricing, the myrow tablet with the mounting arm is priced at $499, and there is a monthly subscription fee of $29.99. At launch, the tablet will offer around 85 video workouts, a couple of hundred preset workouts, and the ability to create custom workouts. myrow plans to expand its video workout library over time.

To sign up for myrow, interested individuals can visit the website and join the mailing list. While orders are not being taken yet, they will be available by the end of February. The release date for the product is dependent on the arrival of the boat from overseas, but the company is confident that they will be able to deliver the product to customers by mid to late April.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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ilume tracks your dog’s activity to prevent overfeeding @ CES 2024

January 27, 2024AI, CES 2024, Healthai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgets, Health, petPLUGHITZ Live

ilume dog tracking and feeding AI-powered dog tracking and feeding is a revolutionary technology that aims to help dog owners better understand and care for their pets. This technology, developed by ilume, utilizes artificial intelligence to track a dog’s movements and accurately determine its caloric expenditure. By doing so, it can provide precise feeding recommendations, ensuring that dogs receive the perfect amount of food each day.

AI-powered dog tracking and feeding

The idea behind this technology stemmed from the founder and CEO of ilume, Craig Silbury’s, passion for dogs and his realization that many dogs are overweight or obese. Silbury recognized that dogs’ daily calorific requirements can vary significantly, even among dogs from the same litter with the same genetics, upbringing, and environment. Some dogs are naturally more active, while others prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. However, overfeeding is a common issue, leading to obesity, which is considered the leading cause of preventable death in dogs.

To address this problem, ilume developed a tracker that can recognize different types of motions, including walking, playing, scratching, and dreaming. By analyzing the intensity and frequency of these motions, the tracker can accurately determine a dog’s caloric expenditure. This information is then used to provide feeding recommendations through an app and an automatic bowl. The bowl is equipped with scales and rings that light up, indicating the precise amount of food needed for each meal. If too much food is added, the bowl will signal the owner to remove the excess.

How the technology works

The tracking fob, which is attached to the dog’s collar, plays a crucial role in collecting data. It recognizes various types of motions and sends this information to the cloud for analysis. By studying the dog’s past behavior patterns, the system can build a comprehensive profile of the dog’s nutritional needs for the day. Additionally, the technology has potential applications beyond tracking and feeding. It can also monitor a dog’s health conditions, such as seizures or diabetes, and provide valuable information to veterinarians for better diagnosis and treatment.

What sets this technology apart is its ability to adapt to a dog’s changing behavior patterns. It takes into account factors such as exercise levels, weather conditions, and the dog’s individual preferences. For example, if a dog typically receives more exercise on weekends, the technology will predict and adjust the feeding recommendations accordingly. Similarly, if it’s raining and the dog is less likely to go for a walk, the system will compensate for the reduced activity level. This ensures that the dog receives the appropriate amount of food each day, promoting a healthy weight and overall well-being.

While the specifics of the AI algorithms and technology used in this system are proprietary, the overall concept holds immense promise for dog owners. AI-powered dog tracking and feeding has the potential to revolutionize the way we care for our pets. By leveraging technology to understand a dog’s individual needs and behavior patterns, this innovation can help prevent obesity, promote overall health, and strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners.

Conclusion: AI makes for a healthier dog

In conclusion, AI-powered dog tracking and feeding is an innovative solution that addresses the issue of overfeeding and obesity in dogs. By accurately tracking a dog’s movements and using AI algorithms to determine its caloric expenditure, this technology provides precise feeding recommendations. The system adapts to a dog’s changing behavior patterns, ensuring that it receives the appropriate amount of food each day. Additionally, the technology can monitor a dog’s health conditions and provide valuable information to veterinarians. This groundbreaking technology has the potential to significantly improve the well-being of dogs and enhance the relationship between dogs and their owners.

The ilume pet tracker is currently available for pre-order. Current pre-orders are going for $300 with a limited number available. To pre-order yours, head to the company’s website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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Y-Brush: A unique toothbrush with a shape to match @ CES 2024

January 25, 2024AI, CES 2024, Healthces2024, gadgets, Health, toothbrushPLUGHITZ Live

Y-Brush automated toothbrush Y-Brush, a novel electric toothbrush, boasts a Y-shaped design that enables it to clean all your teeth at once in a mere 20 seconds. The brainchild of Benjamin, the founder and CEO of Y-Brush, this invention was inspired by his curiosity about why teeth brushing hadn’t been automated like other household chores. His goal was to make teeth brushing more efficient and ensure people brush for the dentist-recommended two minutes.

An electric toothbrush with a unique design

The Y-Brush uses ultrasound technology and requires the use of normal toothpaste. It has a built-in timer that alerts you when it’s time to switch to the bottom row of teeth. The toothbrush has nylon bristles that are gentle on the teeth and provide effective cleaning. According to Y-Brush, using this toothbrush has resulted in less plaque and improved angles for brushing.

The toothbrush is already on the market and has received positive customer feedback. It has been available in Europe for a couple of years and recently launched in the US. The Y-Brush even has a rating of 4.2 or 4.3 on Trustpilot and has gained a significant number of users.

The price point for the Y-Brush varies depending on the model, with the featured model costing $99. There are also other models available for $79, and various packs with accessories can be purchased as well.

New Duo Brush coming soon

During CES 2024, it was announced that a new product called the Duo Brush is coming out next month. The Duo Brush is a pack that includes a longer handle and a head brush. The purpose of this new pack is to provide customers with options and allow them to try out both the traditional brush and the head brush.

The reason for including both options in the pack is that the company has noticed that some people are hesitant to switch to the head brush and prefer the more familiar traditional brush. By offering both options in one pack, customers can try them both out and decide which one they prefer.

An effective new approach to brushing

Jad Sassine, the Business Partnership Manager from Y-Brush, who personally uses the toothbrush, initially had doubts about its effectiveness. However, after using it and receiving positive feedback from their dentist, they became a believer in the product. They emphasize that even though the brushing time is significantly reduced to 20 seconds, the results are still impressive.

Conclusion: Y-Brush is a great brushing choice

In conclusion, the Y-Brush is an electric toothbrush with a unique design that allows for simultaneous brushing of all teeth in just 20 seconds. It uses ultrasound technology and has received positive customer feedback for its effectiveness in reducing plaque. The toothbrush is available in different models and price points, and the company has plans to launch new products, including a Universal Head Brush. To purchase your own, you can head to the company’s website or their Amazon store. The website provides further information about the Y-Brush, including its features and benefits.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.

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BeamO: The future of personal health monitoring unveiled @ CES 2024

January 25, 2024CES 2024, Health, Homeces2024, connected device, gadgets, Health, withingsPLUGHITZ Live

Withings BeamO health monitor Withings has unveiled BeamO, a groundbreaking device that offers a thorough health assessment in just 60 seconds. This innovative gadget is equipped with four distinct sensors, each designed to evaluate different health parameters.

What is BeamO by Withings?

The device’s main objective is to empower users to take control of their health. BeamO synchronizes data to a user-friendly application, allowing individuals to track their health records, log symptoms, and monitor medication adherence. The data can be easily shared with healthcare professionals via PDF or a link, facilitating remote consultations and enhancing diagnostic capabilities.

The versatility of BeamO is important, as it can be used by individuals, families, and those with chronic diseases. The device allows for the creation of multiple profiles, enabling users to track the health of their loved ones and provide longitudinal data to healthcare professionals. This proactive approach to health management aims to detect changes in baseline health and alert doctors to any concerning developments.

The BeamO device is designed to be user-friendly, with the app guiding the different positions for cardiac and lung sounds. This ensures that users can associate their recordings with the correct position, providing doctors with all the necessary information for diagnosis. The device can be used to measure heart sounds on the front of the chest and lung sounds on both the front and back.

BeamO: A revolutionary health checkup device

The first sensor is a one-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) that allows users to measure their heart activity. With an integrated algorithm, BeamO can detect atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder. This feature provides users with valuable insights into their cardiac health.

The second sensor is a pulse oximeter, which measures respiratory health. It assesses the efficiency of the lungs in transferring oxygen to the blood. This information can be crucial in monitoring lung function and detecting any potential respiratory issues.

The third sensor is a digital stethoscope, enabling users to listen to their heart and lung sounds. This feature is particularly useful when assisted by a doctor, as they can identify any abnormal sounds that may indicate underlying health conditions. Users can either listen directly with headphones or live stream the sounds to their doctor, enhancing remote diagnostic capabilities.

The final sensor is a contactless temperature sensor. By scanning the forehead, users can obtain their body temperature within a few seconds. This feature is especially relevant in the current global health environment, as monitoring body temperature is a crucial step in identifying potential illnesses.

BeamO versus a fitness watch

One of the initial questions is regarding the difference between BeamO and an Apple Watch. While both devices utilize similar technology for detecting atrial fibrillation, BeamO offers additional features such as the integrated stethoscope, pulse oximeter, and temperature sensor. These features make BeamO an all-in-one health monitoring device, providing a more comprehensive health assessment compared to an Apple Watch.

Another important question revolves around the quality and regulatory approvals of BeamO. Withings are in the process of obtaining FDA approval and a CE mark for the European market. These regulatory steps ensure the device meets safety and efficacy standards. These approvals do not put it on the same level as a medical-grade device but do put it into a category of high-quality home health monitoring.

The BeamO device is being developed with input from doctors to ensure that it meets clinical standards. Doctors are reportedly happy to see a solution that can assist with telemedicine visits and improve the quality of stethoscope auscultation. The teams working on the BeamO device in Paris are striving to make it of clinical-level quality.

Conclusion: BeamO will be a great home health monitor

In conclusion, the BeamO health checkup device by Withings is a revolutionary product that aims to provide users with a comprehensive understanding of their health. By incorporating multiple sensors and a user-friendly application, BeamO empowers individuals to take control of their health and enhance remote diagnostic capabilities.

At this time, BeamO is still in the prototype stage. Withings is awaiting regulatory approvals before launching the device on the market, though is expected to be released in six to eight months and is poised to be another cool product from Withings. The estimated retail price at launch is $250, with no additional monthly fees for the accompanying application.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.

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Nutrix AG: Unveiling a game-changing cortisol sensor @ CES 2024

January 17, 2024Accessories, CES 2024, Healthai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, connected device, gadgets, Health, stressPLUGHITZ Live

Nutrix AG cortisol sensor In modern society, one of the few constants is stress. Whether it’s a big presentation at work, a growing family, financial concerns, or even a business trip to Las Vegas for CES, stressors are everywhere. Our bodies respond to this stress in a few ways, including by releasing certain hormones into the body. Being able to measure and track these hormones can help you track and properly respond to the stressors we live through every day. Nutrix AG has a sensor to do just that.

What is Nutrix AG?

Maria Hahn, CEO & Founder of Nutrix AG, introduces a revolutionary technology in the field of healthcare – cortisol monitoring using artificial intelligence (AI). She explains the game-changing nature of their Swiss cortisol monitoring sensor and its integration with their digital health platform.

Cortisol is a stress hormone, and the sensor developed by Nutrix AG allows individuals to monitor their cortisol levels easily and conveniently. The process involves placing a small saliva sample on the sensor, which is then analyzed using the device. The data is transferred via Bluetooth to the Nutrix AG software, where it is analyzed by AI.

Using AI to reduce stress

The AI analysis provides valuable insights into an individual’s cortisol levels, allowing them to understand their stress levels and take necessary actions. This technology is unique because it allows users to visualize their cortisol curve and identify potential stress-related issues or sleep quality. Nutrix AG’s medical team also provides personalized assessments and support based on the information gathered.

The data collected from the cortisol monitoring sensor is not the only aspect of Nutrix AG’s ecosystem. They also gather information about physical activity, diet, and body composition to provide comprehensive support and personalized treatment plans. The AI analysis plays a crucial role in processing and interpreting this vast amount of data, saving time for doctors and enabling them to assist more patients.

When asked about the superiority of AI analysis over human doctors, Maria explains that the AI analysis is faster and automates the process, reducing the manual work for doctors. However, she emphasizes that Nutrix AG’s approach combines the expertise of their medical team with the efficiency of AI analysis. The goal is to make doctors’ lives easier and provide accurate and timely information to assist patients effectively.

Maria expresses her confidence in the validity and accuracy of the AI analysis, comparing the current state of AI in healthcare to the disruption seen in the fintech industry a few years ago. She believes that AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare and improve patient care by streamlining processes and providing valuable insights.

Conclusion

Maria the significance of cortisol monitoring using AI and its potential impact on the healthcare industry. Integrating advanced technology with medical expertise can enhance patient care, enable personalized treatment plans, and improve overall well-being. As AI continues to evolve and become more sophisticated, its role in healthcare is expected to grow, leading to further advancements and innovations in the field.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

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Algal Bio has a natural supplement to help you sleep better @ CES 2023

February 24, 2023CES 2023, Healthces2023, Health, sleep, supplementPLUGHITZ Live

Algal Bio sleep aid Millions of people have issues sleeping at night. Whether there’s too much going on in their head, their diet has caused something in their body to be unbalanced, or any number of other issues, it is not an easy problem to deal with. Some people find comfort in music, some in white noise, and others in repetitive TV or movies. But, for many, the problem is addressed with medications. For those who want to try something a little different, there is Algal Bio.

What is Algal Bio?

Algal Bio is a nutritional supplement company that specializes in the benefits of algae. The company has developed a supplement that can actually help people sleep without any of the negative side effects. With traditional sleeping medications, there are some serious side effects. In fact, there are warnings that say “Don’t operate heavy machinery” on the side. And while most of us think about excavators and tractors when we hear this, they actually mean don’t drive a car. In addition, and likely directly related to the warning, people tend to get tired again in the middle of the next day. This delayed lag can really damage productivity when you just want to take a nap at 2 pm.

The Algal Bio supplement, however, manages to avoid all of this. In fact, it seems to have the opposite effect, as people who have tried it report that they actually get a bit of a boost in the middle of the next day rather than an energy drain. This is likely because people tend to have a better day when they sleep well the night before.

Who is Algal Bio for?

Algal Bio is for anyone who is having trouble sleeping. Whether that’s because of stress, anxiety, or something else entirely, Algal Bio can help you get the quality sleep you need to feel rested and alert the next day. It’s also helpful for people with busy schedules who don’t always have time to relax before bed; just take a dose of Algal Bio and drift off into a peaceful sleep

One of the best examples we could think of during our conversation was the CES event itself. During the week, most of us get little to no actual restful sleep. That is especially true for members of the media, who spend all day on the show floor, in conference rooms, or in a studio, and then spend the evening and night at dinners, meetings, or parties. By the time we get back to our rooms, it’s usually well after midnight, and we need to be back to business by 8 am. Being able to get restful sleep in the middle of the night would improve the CES experience immensely.

Summary

Algal Bio’s supplement is currently available in Japan and has seen significant success. The company is hoping to bring the product to North America in the near future. To learn more about the product or if you are a distributor interested in helping them bring it to the West, head over to their website.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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