Wearable devices aren’t new but there is evidence that their popularity is declining. Fitness trackers such as FitBit are reporting lacklustre sales and Apple has just released updated software for its digital watch in a bid to attract new users. Scientists at Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa University, on the other hand, could soon give wearable technology a new lease on life.
Using chips made by Globalfoundaries, a branch of Mubadala, scientists are close to finishing a prototype wearable device that provides early warning for heart attacks. The device, which could be worn as a necklace or bracelet and is powered by body heat, looks for irregular heart patterns in patients at risk of heart disease. While the device is still in the early days of testing, it reflects the positive application of innovative technology in the field of preventive medicine. Given our commitment to this field, we hope that this device is only the beginning of our contributions.