“In addition, the iPod maker has also applied for creation of a system to share graphical user interfaces with external accessories,” Hughes reports.
“Apple currently has a number of fitness-oriented features available in its iPod line, but the Cupertino, Calif., company’s latest patent describes an extremely advanced system using unique technology. Among a number of described methods for measuring exertion during physical exercise include sensing light that travels through the user’s earlobe to determine blood oxygen levels,” Hughes reports
There’s much more, including patent app illustrations that detail the proposed GUI and more, in the full article here.
MacDailyNews Take: iLobe.
Now that would be cool!
Next tech will include ultra sound diagnostics? As usual, Apple inc is busy prepping products we do not know that we need but will find we could never do without one they are unleashed. SO enough with the tablets!!!!
Once they are unleashed! Sorry
Up my ear with a rubber hose? Not sure about this one …
How different is this from similar devices which measure oxygenation while clamped on the outside of a finger? OK, finger vs earlobe … that need not be a real difference in the technology. But it could be.
@DLMeyer
Not earlode…IN ear. Thing ear buds. See Figure 2 in the article. Workout music and monitoring all in one!
Actually, the oxygen monitor IS on the earlobe. The article states: “Such a system would “detect the portion of such light that passes through the user’s earlobe.”
Oh, ear canal.
Misread it at first.
Sounds much less painful….
Merging technology with the human body’s nothing new – Steve’s done that before. Though that Steve was “Steve Austin – Six Million Dollar Man”
From the way he’s going, Steve Jobs will be the Six Billion Dollar Man fairly soon
” width=”19″ height=”19″ alt=”smile” style=”border:0;” />
Thank you anonymous corrector! Not the first time I’ve been wrong. Maybe the last, but not banking on it.
” width=”19″ height=”19″ alt=”smile” style=”border:0;” /> Apparently I should more than skim an article or keep opinions to myself.
You could also put accelerometers in your in-the-ear headphones. That way, you could find out how hard the car hit you when it ran you over while you were jogging with your earphones in.
But I have tons of wax in the ears and not much between them. Will this work for me?
I am a Tae Kwon Do instructor and student. As long as there is nothing protruding from my ear, this could be be workable.
Currently this is nothing that I can use as a monitor that does not interfere with movement or that could hurt someone else if contact is made.
Interesting.
@ kenh:
I am a 2º black belt in TKD, and would LOVE something like this. I agree that there is nothing that can be worn which allows for safe practice/training in martial arts. It would be great to be able to monitor heart rate, blood pressure, length and intensity of workouts, etc.
I still don’t think I’d want to wear anything while sparring, though!
i’m a white belt! i wear headphones so i don’t have to listen to master yell at me!
*smack*
Bizlaw enjoys sparring with nothing on. Or so he says.
People already stick earbud headphones in their ears, no difference, this time the earbud will be able to measure pulse.
Come on! Microsoft would also be able to come up with advanced technology like this if CEO Blamer would simply allow a budget for Microsoft’s R&D;that equalled or surpassed Apple’s!
Oh, wait…