Category Archives: Health

Peel & Play: A new sensory toy for kids with special needs @ CES 2024



Peel & Play sensory toyThe Peel & Play interactive toy, designed for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other related disabilities, aims to provide a fun and creative way for these children to relieve stress and engage in interactive activities. This innovative toy is designed to address the stimming behaviors commonly seen in children with ASD. Stimming, which refers to repetitive behaviors such as hand flapping or repeating words, is a way for individuals with ASD to regulate their emotions and stress levels.

Interactive toy for children with special needs

While stimming behaviors provide comfort and joy for these children, they can also prevent them from attending to daily activities. The goal of the Peel & Play toy is to provide a replacement behavior that is both enjoyable and engaging. Developed by a team called Solive Ventures, the toy incorporates puzzles and interactive features.

Resembling an orange that can be peeled off, the toy provides tactile feedback and vibrations for sensory stimulation. It also includes lights, songs, and different gaming modes. The toy uses haptic device techniques to provide vibrating feedback when pieces are inserted, while the LEDs and songs provide auditory and visual feedback, making the toy engaging and interactive.

The pieces of the toy can be put together to form different shapes, such as animals and numbers, allowing children to be creative and play with the puzzles in various ways. The toy also includes different gaming modes, such as “Catch Me If You Can” and “Simon Says,” which promote cognitive development and memory skills.

Initially targeted at three to four-year-olds, the toy has been observed to be popular among children of different ages. The vibrating mode is popular among younger children, while the puzzle and gaming modes are more suitable for elementary school-aged children.

Tracking actions for engagement

One of the key features of the Peel & Play toy is its ability to track individual usage and provide metrics on children’s engagement. This functionality could prove invaluable in educational settings, enabling teachers to monitor and support children’s progress. By identifying when and how children are using the toy, educators can devise interventions and activities to improve classroom association and reduce reliance on stimming activities.

Future applications of the toy include the development of an app to monitor the developmental milestones of children using the toy. This app will allow parents and therapists to track the child’s progress and customize the activities based on their developmental age.

Conclusion: A toy to ease stimming activities

The Peel & Play toy is set to launch in South Korea in April, with the team behind the toy currently in discussions with clinics and kindergartens in the country. They also have plans to expand to the international market in the future. The toy is expected to be priced between 100 to 200 in Korea, a relatively affordable range considering the potential psychological benefits it can offer. This is particularly significant for children with autism who heavily rely on stimming activities for self-soothing.

In conclusion, the Peel & Play interactive toy, currently in its prototype phase, is a valuable tool for children with disabilities, particularly those with ASD and sensory needs. The toy provides a fun and engaging way for these children to relieve stress, regulate their emotions, and develop cognitive skills. By incorporating tactile, auditory, and visual feedback, the toy promotes sensory stimulation and interactive play. The future development of an app to monitor developmental milestones further enhances the toy’s potential impact on children’s growth and development.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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CarePredict: Empowering families with elder care solutions @ CES 2024



CarePredict elder care technologyCarePredict, an eldercare device designed to detect health issues in seniors, is making waves in the healthcare industry. The device was created to meet the needs of families living away from their elderly loved ones. The founder, inspired by personal experiences with elderly parents and frequent emergency room visits, envisioned a device that could help detect health problems before they become severe.

Eldercare device detects health issues

CarePredict is a wrist-worn wearable device that captures motion data. It can track various patterns such as bathroom usage, sleep patterns, eating patterns, overall activity levels, and walking patterns. The device establishes an individual’s normal patterns and uses artificial intelligence to detect significant deviations. For example, if a senior typically goes to the bathroom five times a day but suddenly starts going ten times a day, it could be an indicator of a urinary tract infection.

The device’s ability to predict health issues is particularly important, especially in relation to conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis. CarePredict can detect changes in walking patterns and activity levels, which could indicate pain or discomfort. This early detection allows caregivers to check on their loved ones and provide assistance if needed. This can be particularly valuable for caregivers who may not be physically present to monitor their loved ones’ health.

Regarding interactivity, CarePredict has a simple interface with a button. Seniors can press the button to get information like the time, date, and battery level. If they need help, the button can also alert their caregiver through the app. The caregiver can then communicate with the senior through the app, providing real-time assistance and support. The ability to have real-time communication and assistance through the wearable device is a crucial feature for long-distance caregivers.

The system works by creating a CareCircle of reliable friends, relatives, and neighbors who can be contacted in case of an emergency. This ensures that help can be quickly dispatched when needed. The device also allows for real-time communication through audio reminders, which can be set up to remind seniors to take their medication or perform other important tasks.

Additional features

One of the key features of the CarePredict device is its ability to pair with FDA-approved devices such as blood pressure monitors and glucose meters. This allows caregivers to track important health metrics and provides a more comprehensive view of a senior’s health. By monitoring these metrics, caregivers can detect any abnormalities and take appropriate action.

Another feature of the device is its ability to track indoor location. For instance, if a senior spends significantly more time in their bedroom than usual, it could signal an issue that requires attention.

Conclusion: CarePredict offers simple safety for aging in place

The CarePredict device is currently available for private purchase at a price of $450 for the kit and a subscription fee of $69.99. While it is not currently reimbursable through Medicare or other insurance programs, the device offers a promising solution for improving elder care and enhancing the well-being of seniors.

In conclusion, CarePredict is a promising solution for improving eldercare and enhancing the well-being of seniors. The device, designed to detect health issues in seniors through motion tracking and artificial intelligence, provides early warning signs for conditions like urinary tract infections and allows caregivers to provide timely assistance. The ability to communicate in real-time through the device is particularly valuable for long-distance caregivers who may not be physically present to help their loved ones.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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Budizzz: A new approach to children’s bedtime routines @ CES 2024



Budizzz bedtime routineBudizzz, a company specializing in sleep technology, has developed a distraction-free device designed to improve sleep quality and promote mental wellness. The device provides a routine free from distractions and harmful blue lights, offering a healthier alternative to using tablets or smartphones before bed.

Distraction-free device for better sleep

The Budizzz device works by synchronizing with a crowdsourced library of content. Users can customize their preferred content, such as breathing techniques, bedtime stories, and calming sounds, to create a routine that promotes relaxation and better sleep. The device is designed for both adults and children.

The device emphasizes the importance of mental health and the need for mindfulness practices, such as breathing techniques, to improve focus and reduce distractions. It also highlights the importance of quality sleep for both children and adults.

The technology behind the device is app-driven, but the creators wanted to disconnect the device from the app. Users can use the app independently, which offers a crowdsourced library of content from around the world. It allows users to set up a routine that includes various sounds and activities, such as breathing techniques, bedtime stories, and gratitude practices. In the morning, the device wakes users up with a body scan and guides them through gratitude practices, ensuring a positive start to the day.

The device offers crowdsource content focused on sleep and mindfulness, contributed by professionals. The revenue generated from the device is shared with these professionals, creating a collaborative and socially responsible project. The device also plans to incorporate AI sleep tracking to provide users with insights into their sleep quality and offer personalized routines for better sleep.

The story behind the device

Sylwia Regulska Guney is the founder of Budizzz, and her inspiration for creating the device came from her own experience as a parent. She noticed that her son often played games on his tablet instead of engaging in activities that promote mindfulness. After her son participated in a mindfulness course, Sylwia recognized the positive impact it had on him and decided to create a device that combines mindfulness practices with better sleep routines.

Sylwia has seen positive changes in her own children after using the device. Her son has become more mindful and aware of his emotions, using breathing techniques to calm himself down. She also mentions the impact of sleep on children’s behavior and emphasizes the importance of bedtime routines for a better day ahead.

Conclusion: A screen-free way to sleep easier

Budizzz was in prototype phase during CES 2024, but has since hit the market. It is available from the company’s website. It is important to note that all prices are in Turkish Lira, but a United States shopping experience is an option (though the pricing and language stay the same)unknown. The price as of current exchange rates is about $65 with shipping costing around $21.

In conclusion, the distraction-free device for better sleep aims to promote mental wellness and improve sleep quality. By providing a routine free from distractions and harmful blue lights, the device offers a healthier alternative to using tablets or smartphones before bed. With its crowdsource library of content and AI sleep tracking, the device aims to provide users with a personalized and effective solution for better sleep and overall well-being.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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Jedsy’s medical delivery solution: Saving lives with drones @ CES 2024



Jedsy medical delivery droneIn recent years, drone technology has emerged as a game-changer across various industries, and the healthcare sector is no exception. Among the pioneers in this field are Mirko Cesena and his team at Jedsy, who have developed an ingenious drone platform with life-saving capabilities.

Jedsy’s innovative solution

Unlike traditional drones that touch down on the ground, Jedsy’s creation takes a different approach. Their drone is equipped with a remarkable feature known as “Mailbox 2.0.” This innovative mailbox can be seamlessly attached to a window or balcony, allowing medical professionals to load essential packages onto the drone without physical contact. Once the package is secured, the window is closed, and the drone initiates its mission.

Jedsy’s drone boasts impressive capabilities. It can cover distances of up to 100 kilometers (approximately 60 miles), making it ideal for reaching remote locations. With a payload capacity of 2.4 kilograms (5 pounds), it can transport critical supplies such as medicine, blood samples, and emergency medical equipment.

Saving lives in challenging environments

The genesis of this technology lies in the urgent need to save lives in regions with limited access to medical facilities, particularly parts of Africa. Mirko and his team recognized the gaps in existing transportation methods and set out to create a reliable solution.

The development journey began three years ago, with meticulous planning, design, and testing. The drone’s unique configuration, featuring both horizontal and vertical motors, was a breakthrough. This design not only ensures stability during flight but also allows for efficient takeoffs and landings.

Jedsy’s drone platform received a patent for its innovative design, validating its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. As the technology continues to evolve, it holds the promise of transforming healthcare delivery, bridging geographical gaps, and saving lives where it matters most. Jedsy’s drone technology represents a beacon of hope for remote communities, demonstrating that innovation knows no boundaries when it comes to improving healthcare outcomes.

Mirko’s impact: From helicopter pilot to drone innovator

Mirko’s journey from helicopter pilot to drone technology pioneer has been nothing short of remarkable. His background in aviation played a crucial role in shaping the development of a groundbreaking solution that could transform healthcare delivery.

During the initial testing phase, Mirko’s skills as a pilot were put to the test. The drone’s flight behavior was unpredictable, and crashes were a constant threat. Mirko’s aerobatic expertise allowed him to navigate and control the drone effectively, saving it from disaster time and again. His commitment ensured that every glider was retrieved, providing valuable data for continuous testing and improvement.

However, the turning point came with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). As software advancements took center stage, the drone evolved beyond its human operator. Today, it operates autonomously, surpassing even Mirko’s capabilities. The drone can now fly beyond the pilot’s line of sight, reaching remote areas with ease. Its ability to control attitude, even in challenging weather conditions, is a testament to AI’s impact.

Leveraging AI algorithms, the drone identifies the fastest routes for transportation. It optimizes delivery paths, ensuring timely and safe transport of critical medical supplies. In addition, the AI-equipped drone detects potential trouble areas, such as adverse weather conditions or obstacles. This proactive approach enhances safety and reliability.

Healthcare revolutionized

The impact of Jedsy’s drone platform extends far beyond technology. In regions with limited access to medical facilities, this innovation becomes a lifeline. Imagine remote villages in Africa receiving urgent medicine, blood samples, or emergency supplies promptly-potentially saving countless lives.

The autonomous nature of the drone reduces reliance on human pilots, minimizing human error and maximizing efficiency. As technology advances, the possibilities for drone applications in healthcare are limitless. Jedsy’s success story serves as a beacon of hope, bridging geographical gaps and improving medical outcomes where it matters most.

Glider drone for medical deliveries

The concept of glider drones for medical deliveries has emerged as a transformative force. These bird-inspired drones, designed to land on windows, utilize thermals to extend their range while conserving battery power. Jedsy, a company with a laser focus on the medical sector, aims to outperform cars in terms of cost per kilometer and reduce CO2 emissions.

Jedsy’s glider drone isn’t merely a technological marvel; it’s a lifeline for medical deliveries. Its unique design, coupled with artificial intelligence integration, positions it as an attractive alternative to traditional transportation methods. As technology evolves, the possibilities for drone applications in healthcare are boundless. Jedsy’s success story offers hope-a bridge connecting remote regions to improved medical access and outcomes.

In conclusion, the glider drone developed by Jedsy presents a promising solution for medical deliveries. Its unique design and integration of artificial intelligence, along with its potential to be cheaper and more efficient than traditional transportation methods, make it an attractive option for the healthcare industry. As technology continues to advance, the possibilities for drone applications in healthcare are vast, offering hope for improved medical access and outcomes, particularly in remote areas.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

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Trilogy Technologies’ blood glucose and cholesterol device @ CES 2024



Trilogy Technologies Non-invasive blood glucose monitorNon-invasive blood glucose monitoring is a new technology designed to simplify and enhance the convenience of monitoring blood glucose levels for individuals with diabetes. Trilogy Technologies, a company specializing in non-invasive medical devices, has developed a device that not only detects blood glucose levels but also measures uric acid and total cholesterol levels. This device provides a painless and convenient method for individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels, a significant improvement over traditional methods that require finger pricking.

Non-invasive blood glucose monitoring

This device is considered a game changer in the market as it eliminates the need for traditional methods such as drawing blood and testing it in certified labs. Pre-clinical trials have been conducted on the device, and it has demonstrated an accuracy rate of 93.49% compared to the golden standard.

The device is compact and user-friendly, requiring no needles or jabs, thus offering a painless experience. To use the device, it is simply pressed against the skin and held lightly. Within 40 seconds, the device displays the blood glucose, uric acid, and total cholesterol levels. The values can also be streamed to Android phones or iPhones for easy tracking and monitoring.

The device stands out for its simplicity. It is a one-time purchase with no need for a subscription. It is rechargeable, allowing for easy and ready use. An accompanying app provides data analysis, assisting users in tracking their health and promoting self-care.

One of the key advantages of this non-invasive blood glucose monitoring device is its affordability. As it does not require expensive patches or continuous supplies, individuals can purchase the device and use it for an extended period of time. Furthermore, all the analysis is done within the device itself, eliminating the need for data to be sent to the cloud, thereby ensuring privacy and avoiding potential risks.

Bringing the product to market and beyond

The device has been well-received, with many seeing it as a potential solution to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, particularly diabetes. It is believed that this device could benefit millions of people, reducing the pain and frustration of monitoring blood glucose levels. It allows people with diabetes and other issues to check their levels anywhere at any time without risk of pain or contamination.

Currently, Trilogy Technologies is conducting clinical trials to obtain FDA approval for their device. This step is crucial to ensure the device meets the required standards for accuracy and safety. It is expected that the device will be available for consumers in the third or fourth quarter of the year.

Trilogy Technologies has expressed hope for widespread support of the product. The company’s goal is to enhance human health and encourage individuals to take responsibility for their own well-being. A release date in 2024 is being targeted.

Conclusion: Trilogy Technologies is fixing blood glucose monitoring

In conclusion, this innovative device, the non-invasive blood glucose monitor developed by Trilogy Technologies, has the potential to significantly improve personal health, especially for individuals with diabetes. Its simplicity, affordability, and potential to revolutionize blood glucose monitoring could have a significant impact on personal health and well-being. To learn more about the company, its products, and the future of the product, check out their website.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

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safe-living: Elder care powered by AI motion detection @ CES 2024



safe-living Elder careAging in place is becoming more common, but it hasn’t gotten much safer. One company that is tackling this challenge is safe-living, which utilizes radar-based technology to detect human motion and provide peace of mind to family caregivers of seniors. The device aims to allow seniors to stay in their homes for as long as possible by automatically calling for help in situations of helplessness.

Smart home device for seniors

The safe-living device is designed specifically for seniors who live alone or with minimal assistance. It consists of a custom radar system that can detect even the tiniest movements, up to a tenth of a millimeter. This radar system works by sending out signals and receiving the reflections, similar to how a bat uses echolocation. The device is capable of differentiating between human motion and motion caused by pets, ensuring accurate detection.

The device operates by creating a mesh network with other devices in the home, allowing them to communicate and understand the movement patterns of the senior. This network is powered by artificial intelligence, which analyzes the data collected by the radar system and identifies any variances or potential concerns. It can detect situations that may indicate helplessness or danger, such as falls or prolonged periods of inactivity.

Radar-based device detects human motion

The technology behind safe-living relies on radio waves to sense even the slightest movements within a room, detecting motion patterns and analyzing them using artificial intelligence (AI) models. The AI continuously monitors motion patterns and alerts caregivers when there is a significant change or variance from the normal pattern.

The device not only detects motion but also has the capability to sense vital signs. This means that it can determine if someone is simply sitting or lying down, even if they are not actively moving. This feature allows the device to detect situations of immobility, such as after a fall, and automatically call for help.

In case of a potential emergency, the device automatically calls for help. However, there is a grace period of 15 minutes during which the user can confirm their well-being and cancel the alert. If no confirmation is received within the grace period, the configured alert and contact will be informed about the situation. For individuals who may not be familiar with smartphones, the device can work without a smartphone and offers alternative methods of alerting, such as a phone call to a landline to check on the individual’s well-being.

In addition to the automated alerts, the safe-living device also includes a digital SOS button within its mobile app. This button allows users to trigger an alert in case of an emergency. For example, if a senior is walking outside and suddenly feels unwell, they can simply click on the SOS button on the app, and an alert will be sent to their family members. The alert includes the real-time location of the person, ensuring that help can be quickly dispatched if needed.

A mobile app for peace of mind

One of the key features of the safe-living device is its mobile app, which allows family members to stay connected and monitor the well-being of their loved ones. The app provides unlimited user access, allowing multiple family members to be connected to the device. This feature is particularly valuable for family members who live far away from their senior loved ones. For example, a son living two and a half hours away can use the app to check on his retired parents. He can see if they are at home and capable of moving, providing peace of mind and reassurance.

In addition to monitoring the well-being of seniors, the app also includes a burglary alarm feature. This allows seniors to activate the alarm when they go on holiday, providing an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Intelligent nightlight with emergency alert

One of the key features of the safe-living device is its intelligent nightlight functionality. This feature aims to address the issue of falls that often occur at night when seniors get up to go to the bathroom in the dark. The device is equipped with LED components in its user interface (UI), which act as a nightlight that automatically lights up when the user gets up at night. This helps seniors orient themselves in the dark and reduces the risk of falls.

The brightness of the LED components is described as being similar to the nightlights found in hotels. It is bright enough to provide sufficient illumination for seniors to navigate their surroundings in the dark. This feature is especially useful for seniors who have difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.

Conclusion: A small device to make seniors healthier and safer

The safe-living device is easy to install, requiring no configuration or complex setup. It is a plug-and-play system that can be installed by the user themselves. The device is available for purchase online and comes with a one-time cost of $249. Additionally, there is a subscription plan available for $12 per month, which provides access to the device’s full range of functionalities. You can buy yours on the company’s website.

Overall, the safe-living device offers a comprehensive solution for ensuring the safety and well-being of seniors living independently. Its radar-based technology, AI analysis, and mobile app functionality make it a valuable tool for family caregivers. With its easy installation and affordable pricing, the safe-living device aims to provide a solution that is accessible to all, offering peace of mind and enhancing the quality of life for seniors and their families.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

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Sennheiser: Innovative sport earbuds with biometric sensors @ CES 2024



Sennheiser MOMENTUM SportThe fitness industry has witnessed a technological revolution in recent years, with innovative tools emerging to enhance workout tracking and performance. A notable development in this domain is the advent of sports earbuds equipped with biometric sensors.

Great audio and biometric tracking together

Sennheiser, in collaboration with fitness company Polar, has developed what they term the “world’s best sport headphones” – the MOMENTUM Sport. These earbuds are uniquely designed with two biometric sensors – a heart rate sensor and a core body temperature sensor. The integration of these sensors enables fitness enthusiasts to track their workouts with greater accuracy and depth. By monitoring heart rate and core body temperature, users can gain valuable insights into their performance and exertion levels during exercise.

The sensors are strategically placed inside the earbuds, leveraging the unique characteristics of the inner ear. The inner ear, being quiet, dark, and muscle-free, provides a stable and consistent environment for biometric readings.

These sports earbuds offer a level of versatility and convenience not found in traditional fitness tracking devices. They can be used independently or in conjunction with a sports watch, accommodating a variety of athletic activities and personal preferences.

The earbuds also boast several additional features that set them apart. These include wireless charging, noise cancellation, and a built-in 3-axis accelerometer. The accelerometer allows users to control their earbuds even when wearing gloves or ear warmers, simply by tapping their cheek.

Set to be released in April, the MOMENTUM Sport earbuds are priced at $329. While this may be considered a premium price point, the extensive feature set justifies the investment for fitness enthusiasts seeking superior audio quality and comprehensive workout tracking capabilities.

MOMENTUM True Wireless 4: A blend of affordability and quality

The company also introduced its new MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 earbuds. These earbuds promise a premium audio experience at a price point that balances affordability and quality. The decision to set the price at $299 reflects Sennheiser’s commitment to delivering value to its customers without compromising on the quality of the product.

The design of these earbuds has been enhanced over its previous models, particularly the antenna design, resulting in improved connectivity. This is a critical feature for wireless earbuds, as a stable and reliable connection is vital for a seamless listening experience. Moreover, the earbuds come with a noise-canceling feature, ensuring that users can immerse themselves in their music without external distractions.

Conclusion: Great sound and features from Sennheiser

In conclusion, the introduction of the MOMENTUM Sport earbuds with biometric sensors marks a significant advancement in fitness technology. These earbuds offer a comprehensive solution for workout tracking, with features such as heart rate monitoring and core body temperature sensing. The strategic placement of biometric sensors ensures accurate readings, while additional features like wireless charging and noise cancellation enhance user experience.

The new Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 earbuds, priced at $299, present a compelling option for audio enthusiasts. With their enhanced antenna design, noise-canceling feature, and numerous other improvements, these earbuds are set to deliver a superior listening experience. Their affordability broadens their reach to a wider consumer base, ensuring that more people can enjoy the high-quality audio that Sennheiser is renowned for.

As for availability, the earbuds will be accessible on the Sennheiser website, allowing customers to easily purchase these earbuds directly from the manufacturer. Sennheiser is also actively engaging with its audience, promising to provide more information as the launch date nears.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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Introducing Minitailz: The small smart collar for dogs @ CES 2024



Minitailz smart dog collarKeeping track of your dog’s health needs can be a challenge. They are incapable of telling you directly what is happening in their bodies – they can only give suggestions and hints. However, with technology, we can give our dogs a voice in their health situations. With the newest generation of Minitailz by Invoxia, dog owners get this and a lot more, like GPS tracking and activity tracking. This innovative device offers a range of features that are beneficial for both dog owners and their furry companions.

Smart collar for dogs with GPS and health tracking

One of the most significant features of the Minitailz is its health-tracking capabilities. It can measure a dog’s resting heart rate and respiratory rates, providing valuable information about their overall health. Additionally, the device can diagnose a common heart condition in dogs called atrial fibrillation (AFib).

AFib is a type of arrhythmia that affects about 10% of dogs and becomes more common as dogs age. The Minitailz can detect AFib early, allowing owners to seek treatment before it becomes a more serious issue. This feature is especially important because dogs cannot communicate their symptoms, making it challenging for owners to identify health problems. Around 25% of dogs develop AFib by the age of 12. This highlights the importance of having a device like the Minitailz to monitor a dog’s health and catch potential issues early on.

The Minitailz also has activity tracking, which allows owners to monitor their dog’s daily activities. It can track activities such as walking, trotting, running, eating, and drinking. This feature provides owners with a detailed understanding of their dog’s daily routine and helps them ensure their pet is getting enough exercise and staying healthy.

The Minitailz utilizes AI technology to analyze the collected data and identify abnormalities and variations. It compares the dog’s data to its own baseline from previous months, weeks, and days. It also compares the data to other dogs within the same breed group. This comparative analysis helps determine if there are any deviations from normal patterns.

Active and passive GPS tracking

The GPS tracking feature allows dog owners to keep track of their pets and prevent them from getting lost. This is especially useful for dog owners who live in areas with a high risk of their dogs running away. It also includes geofencing, which allows owners to set up virtual boundaries for their dogs. If the dog goes beyond these boundaries, the owner receives a notification. This feature is particularly useful for preventing dogs from running away or getting lost.

Regarding the device’s functionality, it has live tracking capabilities but conserves battery life by defaulting to batch processing. The device triggers notifications when there is something of interest, such as the dog leaving the predefined zone. The data is stored in the device’s cache until it is ready to be processed and sent.

In terms of design, the Minitailz has been made smaller and more comfortable to fit both small and large dogs.

Conclusion: A small device to help your dog’s health

In conclusion, the Minitailz is a smart collar for dogs that offers GPS tracking, activity tracking, and health tracking features. It provides dog owners with valuable information about their pet’s whereabouts, daily activities, and overall health. The device’s ability to diagnose atrial fibrillation and its geofencing capabilities make it a valuable tool for dog owners concerned about their pet’s safety and well-being.

The device is priced at $99, and there is a monthly subscription fee of $8.50. The device is available for purchase on the Invoxia website or their Amazon store.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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



.lumen visually impaired guidanceTechnology 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



ElliQ companion robot for elderlyIntuition 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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