Innovation of the week: A smartwatch that helps track epilepsy
Some smartwatches are more than just “glorified pedometers.”

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Some smartwatches are more than just "glorified pedometers," said John Brownlee at Fast Company. A company called Empatica has developed a wearable device called Embrace, which helps epileptics "track and manage their seizures without feeling stigmatized." Like most smartwatches, Embrace "can be used as an understated watch" or as a fitness tracker that syncs with your smartphone. But it also features "clinical-grade sensors" to measure electrical signals in users' skin, which in turn can indicate stress or even anticipate seizures. "When the Embrace detects such a seizure, it automatically sends an alert to a friend, partner, or caretaker, along with the wearer's location." The device, which is the result of seven years of research by several MIT graduates, is available via pre-order for $189.
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