Tag: wearable technology

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Connected Objects Technology Wearables

Smarter strides made possible by Stridalyzer

Knee problems make up a significant percentage of all injuries to runners, hence the common affliction known as runner’s knee. That’s why ReTiSense, the Bangalore, India-based maker of Stridalyzer smart insoles, made the prevention of knee injuries its top priority when developing the product.

Stridalyzer analyzes the user’s stride and gait and can predict if that person is headed for an injury. The insoles have integrated multiple sensors that detect how the user’s foot lands, rolls and pushes off the ground. All the user has to do is put the insoles in their running shoes, turn on the accompanying iOS (and, by the time of launch, Android) app, and start running. Stridalyzer automatically understands the user is moving and will start collecting data about the run from each of the two included insoles. The insoles come with a USB charging cord and each insole battery charges in about 15 minutes.

The insoles are similar in size and use similar materials as the insoles that are used in typical high-end running shoes. The company will design the insoles in just a few common sizes initially, but it will be possible to trim the insoles by one size, using scissors, so they can fit more snugly. The company plans to launch an ExpertConnect premium service to be used with the insoles a few months after the product ships in the spring. The service will enable runners to get more individualized and directed advice from running experts, coaches or trainers. Backers who pledge at least $90 will get the insoles in April or May. ReTiSense is looking to raise $25,000 by Jan. 7.

Certainly the product seems like a steal at the early bird pricing levels, especially when you consider that the similar—but apparently less advanced—UniverSole was priced at $200 a pair. Even at its regular price of $129-$139, many consumers may see Stridalyzer as a good deal.

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Smartwatches/Bands Technology Wearables

Uno Noteband touts Spritz technology for fitness tracking

The Uno Noteband—no relation to the restaurant chain or the card game—features fitness tracking technology like several other wearable bracelets on the market. But what separates the Uno Noteband from the crowded field of competing devices is its use of a new technology called Spritz.

Spritz is a reading compression technology that enables one-touch reading of notifications on the device’s OLED display. Reading via the Noteband can be done up to 80% faster than on typical mobile devices because it eliminates the scrolling function that typically requires two hands. As a result, the user can get through a long email message after just one click. The device notifies users of any alert that a smartphone would receive, such as Facebook, Instagram, Google Calendar, Twitter or Uber. Uno vibrates when it receives an alert and the user just has to touch the Noteband to display the message. The device, compatible with the Android and iOS operating systems, also features an accelerometer that enables fitness goals and syncs with the Apple Health and Google Fit platforms. Shipping will occur in April for a donation of $129. The team of technology veterans that developed the Uno Noteband are pushing to meet a goal of $50,000.

The Uno Noteband’s Spritz functionality is a clear advantage over what several rival fitness tracking wearables offer. The device is also considerably cheaper than the equally promising Atlas.  The only drawback for now seems to be the Uno branding.

Categories
Connected Objects

Lupo resolves absent-minded moments with tracking app

The Premise. It never fails. You’re in a hurry: your car keys mysteriously disappear. Or it could be that you’re out shopping, your purse is in the cart, you turn your back for a moment and then can’t find your purse. These and other activities can be monitored by an app that not only acts as your personal lost and found, but is capable of some other interesting activities.

The Product. Lupo aims to be your best electronic buddy and ultimate administrative pal all rolled into one. The app’s ability to track your stuff through interconnected technology may very well mean that mom no longer needs to tell little Johnny where he had his shoes last, where Dad laid down his wallet, or where Susie left her phone. Those who are tech-savvy can even use Lupo to control some soothing music from their favorite mobile device while putting together that high-power presentation for work. And if it just so happens that the cat ran off with the mouse, no worries. Lupo even has the potential to function like a wireless mouse.

The Pitch. The video for the £20,000 campaign actually does a great job of succinctly explaining what Lupo does and how it works. It seems worth noting that Lupo technology works via “state of the art algorithm,” which should mean that battery life is extended, Lupo’s range and other settings can be varied, and that new, unique apps are possible with API support.

The Perks. There are seven tiers from which backers may choose. For £24 (or about $39 USD), a backer gets one Lupo in their choice of white, black or blue. The mini tracking device is expected to retail for £40, and the estimated delivery is August 2014.

The Potential. Lupo will likely have a wide demographic from teens to young adults to parents and possibly young-at-heart grandparents. While Lupo’s software component is available in the app store, it’s not yet available for Android, but that’s temporary. Lupo competing against a host of Bluetooth finding campaigns, including XY, Chipolo and  Hone as well as products such as the Kensington Proximo, and Wallet TrackR. However, unlike many of those, the product’s remote activation capabilities and platform capabilities could help set it apart.

Categories
Tech Accessories Wearables

ThumbTrack creates a wearable mouse for mobile computing

ThumbTrackOne of the continued limitations of laptop computing is the lack of a functional mouse substitute. Far from the first ring-slinger, The ThumbTrack takes the hand motions of the standard mouse and shrinks them down to a wearable thumb ring that is light, small, and easy to use at any location. The design is also designed to be ergonomic and reduce hand strain. Simple touch features are also available to allow users to easily scroll or drag icons. Backers interested in giving this project a thumbs-up will be able to get this product on their hands in December of this year for a $119 pledge.

Categories
Smartwatches/Bands Technology

Zamman seeks to differentiate by offering smartwatch in the round

Smartwatch 20140209125400-coverpage[1]You run out the door and see the grey sky above. Uhooh. Should you bother to bring an umbrella? No more digging around in your pocket or purse for your mobile device to find out. The Zammann smartwatch operates like a simplified smartphone so you get that speedy weather update right on your wrist. As with other smartwatches, various apps will also let you read your e-mail, visit social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter, control your music device, track fitness goals and a multitude other really cool functions. And yes, even your phone calls can be managed right there on your wrist. Of course, crowdfunding sites have been a haven for many smartwatches, but what sets the Zammann apart is its traditional round face. Unfortunately, the Zammanites haven’t provided much in the way of a video to show the product in action so we’re asked to take a bit of a leap of faith. The wearable technology comes in stainless steel, titanium and rose gold. For $199, a backer gets a Stainless Steel smartwatch with an expected delivery date of August 2014.