Innovation of the week: A smartwatch that helps track epilepsy

(Image credit: Screenshot)

published 13 February 2015

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.