2022 could be the year we see fitness and health tracking go beyond our wrists. What better place to start than a mask, which has become the first thing you wear the moment you step out of your home.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed FaceBit, a small chip that attaches to an N95 mask and the built-in sensors then track a host of things from the way the mask is being worn to the wearer’s vital stats.
The chip is able to monitor heart-rate using the subtle head movements from blood pumping, breathing, and even stress levels. It can also detect if the mask is being worn the correct way by analysing sudden dips in mask resistance.
The researchers also say that you won’t have to worry about charging the chip. Using heat, motion, breathing force and even the sun, the chip can power itself. In addition to that, there’s also a small battery fitted to power everything.
Needless to say, FaceBit is at the testing phase, and will need to undergo clinical trials before it is ready for real-world use. Nonetheless, it does hint at a future where smart masks are a real thing.