Meizu’s innovative patent: Glasses that measure vitals
Meizu, has recently applied for a patent that could redefine smart glasses, with the ability to measure vital metrics such as heart rate and blood oxygen level.
Smart glasses have come a long way since their inception. The concept dates back to the 1960s when Ivan Sutherland created the first head-mounted display. Over the years, various companies have experimented with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. Google Glass, launched in 2013, was one of the first products that brought smart glasses to the mainstream. However it faced challenges in adoption and the project was ultimately disbanded.
Apple’s upcoming smart glasses
Recently, Apple’s rumoured smart glasses have been grabbing headlines. Vision Pro, set to be released in early 2024, marks the company’s venture into the world of mixed-reality headsets.
The specs will integrate digital media with the real world, allowing interaction through motion gestures, eye tracking, and voice input. The headset will run on visionOS, an iOS-based operating system, and will be powered by Apple’s M2 and R1 processors. With features such as spatial computing and extended reality apps, it’s poised to redefine the way users interact with digital content.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
However, the Vision Pro has been met with mixed reactions. While some have praised its innovative features, others have criticised its high cost of US$3,499, short battery lifespan, and lack of certain functionalities. Nevertheless, the AR glasses represent a bold step for Apple, and its impact on the mixed-reality landscape will be closely watched.
While this will undoubtedly be a feature-rich product, it doesn’t appear the specs will be able to track any vitals stats. But other companies are looking in this direction.
Meizu’s patent
Meizu has recently applied for a patent for glasses capable of measuring heart Rate and blood Oxygen levels. The documents reveal that the wearable device includes components such as a smart glasses body, nose pads, and health measurement sensors. Interestingly, the sensors are strategically placed on the nose buds, improving detection accuracy.
It is worth noting, Meizu has not directly filed the patent. The assignee is a new company founded in 2021, Hubei Xingji Meizu Technology Co., Ltd. The chairman remains the same for both companies, and the new entity focuses on manufacturing mobile phones, ICs, electronic products, and satellite mobile phones.
Meizu’s innovation doesn’t stop at smart glasses. The company is also working on a foldable smartphone. A recent patent filing reveals a design that follows a folding pattern accompanied by a pop-up mechanism. This design appears to solve the major difficulty of folding and unfolding the smartphone, making the process more convenient for users.
Meizu’s patent for glasses that can measure vital metrics is an exciting development. It represents a step towards integrating health monitoring into everyday devices, making it more accessible and user-friendly. However, it’s essential to note that this is just a patent, and it may or may not translate into a real-world product. The future of wearable technology is filled with potential, and it is innovations like this one that keep the industry moving forward.
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