US Patente and Trade Marking Management (USPTO) has published a new patent application by Apple for a next-generation Airpods. These wireless headphones will have a unique feature – the ability to measure user brain activity. The patent was reported by Patently Apple.[source]
The new Airpods are expected to be capable of measuring a variety of biosignals. These biosignals include:
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) for monitoring brain activity;
- Electromiography (EMG) for studying muscle activity;
- Electricoculography (EOG) to observe eye movement;
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) to monitor heart function;
- Skin-galvanic reaction (KGR) to track emotional state;
- Heart pulse for analyzing the cardiovascular system.
The new patent also reveals the location of the electrodes on the Airpods headphones.
One notable feature of the patent is the dynamic selection of electrodes for measuring biosignals based on user parameters, device usage, environmental influence, and other factors. This technology considers the individual characteristics of each user’s ear shape and size, ensuring high measurement accuracy.
Additionally, the new headphones may include a function to activate biosignal measurement upon user command, such as a single touch in a specific area of the headphone. The patent also mentions the possibility of using an optical sensor in the headphones to initiate and stop the measurement of biosignals.
Furthermore, Apple suggests that this technology could also be implemented in smart glasses. In this scenario, electrodes and sensors could be placed on the glasses’ frames, enabling continuous monitoring of the user’s condition while wearing the glasses.