Google’s Newest Tech Trend Tracking Heart Rate with Audioplethysmography
Google has pulled off another technological feat with its latest innovation: audioplethysmography (APG). This groundbreaking method allows active noise canceling (ANC) headphones and earbuds to do double duty as heart rate monitors. It’s like turning your headphones into a health-conscious personal trainer!
You might be wondering how on earth headphones can measure your heart rate. Well, let me break it down for you. APG works by emitting a low-intensity ultrasound signal from the speakers of the ANC headphones. This signal bounces back as echoes, which are then captured by built-in feedback microphones. These echoes are influenced by the subtle movements of your skin and the vibrations caused by your beating heart. Clever, right?
But here’s the best part: APG can accurately measure your heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV) even while you’re rocking out to your favorite tunes or struggling with an earbud that just won’t stay put. The processing system developed by Google takes the data collected and translates it into meaningful health measurements. No specialized devices or fitness wearables needed. Talk about convenience!
Not only is APG a cost-effective solution, but it also transforms any ANC headphones or earbuds into intelligent sensing devices with a simple software update. Who would have thought that your music companion could now be your personal health assistant?
And let’s not forget about the studies that prove the effectiveness of APG. In two separate studies involving 153 participants, this technology consistently provided accurate heart rate and HRV readings. It doesn’t matter if you have light or dark skin, big or small ear canals, or a less-than-perfect earbud seal. APG outperforms traditional methods like photoplethysmograms (PPG) and electrocardiograms (ECG). This means that it has the potential to revolutionize how healthcare professionals monitor cardiovascular conditions and improve patient care.
So, the next time someone tells you to put your heart into your music, take it literally! With APG, your ANC headphones or earbuds will become your personal health coach, helping you achieve a healthier lifestyle while immersing yourself in your favorite tunes. Now that’s what I call music to my ears!
Featured Image Credit: Photo by Designecologist; Pexels; Thank you!
