People increasingly control the functions of their body with the help of “smart” accessories.

Watches and rings track vital signs, while some glasses are now equipped with cameras and microphones. There are even “smart” brooches. However, some of the accessories have yet to receive a smart touch.

Researchers from the University of Washington have developed a Thermal Earring – a wireless carrier that not only monitors the temperature of the skin during rest more accurately than a smart watch. It also has potential applications for monitoring stress, nutrition, exercise, and ovulation. This is reported by Femtech Insider.

The device, the size and weight of a small paper clip, attaches to the earlobe with a magnetic clip, and the battery lasts 28 days.

The Thermal Earring contains one earlobe temperature sensor and another room temperature sensor, providing accurate readings by distinguishing between body and ambient temperature.

Creating a device that would be small enough and inconspicuous, but capable of working for several days on a single charge, became a challenge for researchers. This was achieved by optimizing the earring’s energy consumption and incorporating a Bluetooth chip, a battery, two temperature sensors and an antenna into its design.

While early findings are promising, further research and data are needed to refine device models for each potential use case. More data and more thorough testing are needed before the device can be widely used.

Later, the developers plan to develop a set of jewelry for health monitoring. For example, the earrings will measure activity and health indicators, such as temperature and heart rate, while the necklace can serve as an electrocardiogram monitor for more effective heart health data.

Read also on ProIT about “smart” AR glasses, which may soon become a part of your life.

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