The worldwide market for smart glasses hasn’t taken off despite a few years of pilots, implementations, and a lot of hype, according to market intelligence firm Tractica. Many are frustrated because the technology has not met end-user expectations. The market experienced a roller coaster ride as pioneers exited and newcomers and a wide array of platform and software providers expanded their offerings. However, the for AR glasses is still growing at a slow but steady pace as it inches away from being a niche product to becoming an industrial and enterprise problem solver. The market is building its ecosystem, refining hardware, and taking a more realistic approach for the long-run ramp-up of smart AR glasses, reports Tractica.

Augmented reality glasses enable information about the user’s environment displayed in front of their eyes on their glasses. Additionally, AR glasses effectively superimposes the virtual objects on to the real world. Smart augmented reality glasses enable efficient interactions with holographic objects, as well, because of the presence of sensors and position trackers.

Read more Snap to Release Spectacles 3 AR Glasses with 3D Video Camera

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Innovations in augmented reality glasses has led to the introduction of mixed reality glasses comprising of enhanced functions. Mixed reality continues to demonstrate a more immersive experience for users.

Tractica expects an inflection point to hit for both assisted and mixed reality glasses in the 2021-2022 timeframe. The supporting ecosystem will be at a more mature level, which will boost production and making the price cheaper, according to the Tractica report. Mixed Reality will be the main driver for smart AR glasses in the longer term. Large market players, including Apple, are expected to introduce offerings that will spur consumer adoption.

Read more Cognoa Licenses Google Glass-based AI Technology for Children with Autism

This Tractica report covers the various types of smart AR glasses, from simple assisted reality glasses to mixed reality holographic displays. The different application markets for smart AR glasses that are covered in depth include consumer, enterprise, industrial, public safety, sports, and healthcare. More than 20 profiles of hardware and software vendors are provided, with an additional 50-plus companies included in extended lists of industry participants. This report also provides market forecasts from 2018 to 2025 for smart AR glasses with data segmented by region, application market, and connectivity technology.

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An in-home cardiac rehabilitation program developed in collaboration between Samsung and Kaiser Permanente achieved substantial lower rehospitalization rates according to a study in NEJM Catalyst.

Read more Johnson & Johnson Collaborates with Apple to Use its App with Apple Watch in AFib Study

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Cardiac rehabilitation programs including exercise and diet, as well as health education and counseling, can significantly reduce the risks related to cardiovascular disease. However, few cardiac patients enroll in rehabilitation programs, and even fewer complete them, reports Kaiser Permanente.

“This program took a fresh, digital-first approach to cardiac rehabilitation and put control in patients’ hands,” said Peter Koo, Corporate SVP and Head of the Health Service Team, Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics. “It produced higher program completion rates than programs requiring excessive trips to the doctor’s office.

A total of 2,300 patients were recruited for the study. More than 80% of the patients completed it, compared to the national average of less than 50%. Kaiser Permanente is now evaluating expansion of the program beyond Southern California.

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"Knowing that lifestyle change plays such a critical role in the long-term health of cardiac patients, we set out to find a way to make the rehabilitation program as easy and seamless as possible for our members," said Tad Funahashi, MD, who leads clinical innovation at Kaiser Permanente in Southern California. "By working closely with patients, care providers, and case managers we were able to do just that. Our virtual cardiac rehabilitation program is proving to keep patients engaged and reduce readmissions."

Read more Isansys ‘Smart Patch’ Wireless Monitoring Platform Very Effective in Monitoring Patients with Advanced Liver Disease: Study

The eight-week long Virtual Cardiac Rehabilitation Program combines wearable technology with Kaiser Permanente's existing digital platform. Once enrolled, patients meet with their care team to create a rehabilitation program specific to their needs. The participants use a Samsung smartwatch (Gear S3 or Galaxy Watch) that pairs via Bluetooth with an Apple or Android smartphone. Samsung’s HeartWise application tracks each patient’s daily heart rate and activities. The watch sends reminders to the patient to exercise, collects patient activity data and continuously displays the patient heart rate during exercise. This data is automatically uploaded via the smartphone into the patient's chart so that clinicians, case managers and physical therapists can track patient progress and engage with them accordingly.

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American fashion designer Fossil has launched proprietary nextgen touchscreen smartwatch and its newest hybrid smartwatches. The watches run on Wear OS and are powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100 platform, Fossil said in a press release.

“We've made multi-day battery life for touchscreen smartwatches possible with one touch – a disruptor for smartwatches on the Wear OS by Google platform. And, we're leading the industry on Wear OS by Google by enabling tethered phone calls for iPhone users,” said Fossil Group Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Greg McKelvey. “Both advancements are the result of our unrelenting focus on advancing wearable technology. We'll continue to integrate the latest tech features our customers need with the styles they love.”

Read more BMW to Launch Smartwatch Collection in Partnership with Fossil in 2019

According Fossil, these new watches will be the company’s most advanced smartwatches ever, thanks to new features including:

• Extended Battery Life. Extended battery mode unlocks multi-day usage by keeping on essential features such as notifications and heart rate on a single, one-hour charge
• Voice Calling that iPhone users to make and receive calls while tethered to their phones
• Microphone and Swimproof Speaker. Users can get things done with help from Google Assistant and hear responses back, take phone calls, get audible alerts, play music and more
• Increased Storage. 8GB storage and up to 16GB Memory
• Cardiogram, Spotify and Noonlight
• The latest Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100 platform

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“We're closely aligned with our partners at Google to ensure we're constantly iterating within the Wear OS by Google platform to deliver the most desired smartwatch features and benefits,” said McKelvey. “We listened to our customers and knew that longer battery life and tethered iPhone calls were essential in our nextgen products.”

In addition to the new touchscreen smartwatches, Fossil will introduce a new category of hybrid smartwatches this fall/holiday seasons. This new category of hybrid smartwatches has functionality similar to a touchscreen smartwatch with the look and feel of a classic watch, while still offering long battery life.

Read more Samsung Galaxy Watch 2 Rumors: Release Date, Price and Features

Fossil Group, with over $400 million in wearable device sales in 2018, will launch more than 100 new smartwatch styles across 10 brands this 2019 fall/holiday retail season. The company will reveal the brands and specific styles throughout the season.

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IFA is the world's leading trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances. Held each year in Germany, the event gives companies opportunity to showcase their products. Last year’s event was attended by over 250,000 people. A bigger crowd is expected at this year’s IFA which takes place from 6 September to 11 September, in Berlin. Like previous years, wearables will occupy a big part of the show.

Read more Best of IFA 2018: All the Major Launches, New Wearables, Smart Appliances and More

We’ll be there to bring you the latest news and highlights of the event. Here’s a preview of what to expect at the IFA 2019.

Garmin

Garmin has regularly introduced several wearables at the event So it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them presenting a wearable or two at this year’s show. After successful launch of Forerunner 45/45S, Forerunner 245/245 Music and Forerunner 945 and Fenix 5, the next one to arrive may be the Fenix 6. The smartwatch is expected to hit the market towards the end of August and it’ll reportedly come in several variants including 6, 6 Pro, 6s, 6s Pro, 6x Pro and 6x Pro Solar, reports Gadgets and Wearables.

Fossil

Fossil’s first 5th generation smartwatches – Carlyle HR and Julianna HR – are expected to be launched at the event. The watches come with a built-in speaker, longer battery life via smart battery modes, increased storage capacity and the Snapdragon 3100 processor.

Samsung

This year, Samsung launched Galaxy Watch Active 2, 6 months after the first one. The smartwatch features ECG, a touch-sensitive bezel, as well as an LTE variant. To coincide with the IFA event, fans can preorder the smartwatches starting 6th of September.

Read more Sleep Trackers Took the Center Stage at the IFA 2018 in Berlin

Huami

Huami has launched a boatload of devices in recent months. This includes the Amazfit Bip Lite, Amazfit Verge Lite, Amazfit Health Watch, Amazfit Smart Watch 2 and Amazfit GTR.

According to Gadgets and Wearables, the company is planning to unveil five new products at the IFA 2019. These new products will probably include most of the above, as they have only made their debut in China. Among these, the one that would really generate lots of interest would be an updated version of the Amazfit Bip.

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Following its financial results for the second quarter of 2019, NeuroMetrix has asked investors for help to restructure its business and is moving away from a direct-to-consumer business model for its wearable pain relief platform, Quell.

The company has also laid off more than half of its workforce since the beginning of 2019.

Read more Neurometrix introduces its latest innovation Quell 2.0: A Wearable Pain Relief Technology

"We have brought in external expertise to optimize the value of our company. The reorganization we initiated in June was a difficult but necessary step to better align our operating structure with current revenues," said Shai N. Gozani, M.D., Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of NeuroMetrix. "We are pleased with DPNCheck's performance, particularly in our domestic market, which has offset fluctuating sales abroad, especially in Mexico. With Quell, we are working to find the optimal commercial approach to generate profitable sales with a modest investment in digital advertising. We remain convinced of the effectiveness and unique benefits of Quell technology. Finally, we continue to seek a resolution in the previously announced Federal Trade Commission (FTC) matter related to Quell advertising."

In Q2 2019, NeuroMetrix’s total revenues were $2.4 million versus $3.8 million in the prior year period, a decrease of 37%.

Gross margin was a negative $0.8 million after recording an inventory charge of $1.9 million. Excluding the inventory charge, gross margin of $1.1 million represented a gross margin rate of 47.0% in comparison with the gross margin rate of 48.0% in Q2 2018.

Read more Tech Companies Trying to Prevent Opioid Addiction with Pain Relief Wearables

A crucial element in this decrease was declining consumer interest in the Quell product, which dipped to $0.8 million in the quarter after recording $1.6 million in Q1 2019 and $2.1 million in Q2 2018. According to Gozani and Chief Financial Officer Thomas Higgins, much of the drop is attributed to NeuroMetrix scaling back its advertising efforts since last year’s major push. However, the company is also contending with excess stock of Quell 2.0 parts that racked up $1.9 million in inventory costs during the quarter, reports MobiHealthNews.

“It is a process that will take time, and ultimately some financial resources,” Gozani said. “Consistent with our commitment to evaluate all options for the business, in parallel, we are exploring options to sell some or all of the Quell business and intellectual property.”

IFA is the world's leading trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances. Held each year in Germany, the event gives companies opportunity to showcase their products. Last year’s event was attended by over 250,000 people. A bigger crowd is expected at this year’s IFA which takes place from 6 September to 11 September, in Berlin. Like previous years, wearables will occupy a big part of the show.

Read more Best of IFA 2018: All the Major Launches, New Wearables, Smart Appliances and More

We’ll be there to bring you the latest news and highlights of the event. Here’s a preview of what to expect at the IFA 2019.

Garmin

Garmin has regularly introduced several wearables at the event So it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them presenting a wearable or two at this year’s show. After successful launch of Forerunner 45/45S, Forerunner 245/245 Music and Forerunner 945 and Fenix 5, the next one to arrive may be the Fenix 6. The smartwatch is expected to hit the market towards the end of August and it’ll reportedly come in several variants including 6, 6 Pro, 6s, 6s Pro, 6x Pro and 6x Pro Solar, reports Gadgets and Wearables.

Fossil

Fossil’s first 5th generation smartwatches – Carlyle HR and Julianna HR – are expected to be launched at the event. The watches come with a built-in speaker, longer battery life via smart battery modes, increased storage capacity and the Snapdragon 3100 processor.

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Samsung

This year, Samsung launched Galaxy Watch Active 2, 6 months after the first one. The smartwatch features ECG, a touch-sensitive bezel, as well as an LTE variant. To coincide with the IFA event, fans can preorder the smartwatches starting 6th of September.

Read more Sleep Trackers Took the Center Stage at the IFA 2018 in Berlin

Huami

Huami has launched a boatload of devices in recent months. This includes the Amazfit Bip Lite, Amazfit Verge Lite, Amazfit Health Watch, Amazfit Smart Watch 2 and Amazfit GTR.

According to Gadgets and Wearables, the company is planning to unveil five new products at the IFA 2019. These new products will probably include most of the above, as they have only made their debut in China. Among these, the one that would really generate lots of interest would be an updated version of the Amazfit Bip.

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Following Q2 2019 financial results, NeuroMetrix has sought help from investors in an effort to restructure its business and is turning away from a direct-to-consumer business model for its wearable pain relief platform, Quell.

The company also laid off more than half of its staff since the beginning of 2019.

Read more Neurometrix Unveils Its Latest Innovation Quell 2.0: A Wearable Pain Relief Technology

"We have engaged outside expertise to help optimize the value of our business. The restructuring that we initiated in June was a difficult but essential step to better align our operating structure with current revenues,” said Shai N. Gozani, M.D., Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of NeuroMetrix. “We are pleased with the DPNCheck performance, particularly in our domestic market, which offset variable timing of international sales, particularly in Mexico. With Quell, we are working to find the optimal commercial approach to deliver profitable sales with a modest investment in digital advertising. We continue to believe in the effectiveness and unique benefits of the Quell technology. Finally, we continue to seek resolution of the previously disclosed Federal Trade Commission (FTC) matter which is centered on Quell advertising.”

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In Q2 2019, NeuroMetrix’s total revenues were $2.4 million versus $3.8 million in the prior year period, a decrease of 37%.

Gross margin was a negative $0.8 million after recording an inventory charge of $1.9 million. Excluding the inventory charge, gross margin of $1.1 million represented a gross margin rate of 47.0% in comparison with the gross margin rate of 48.0% in Q2 2018.

Read more Tech Companies Trying to Prevent Opioid Addiction with Pain Relief Wearables

A crucial element in this decrease was declining consumer interest in the Quell product, which dipped to $0.8 million in the quarter after recording $1.6 million in Q1 2019 and $2.1 million in Q2 2018. According to Gozani and Chief Financial Officer Thomas Higgins, much of the drop is attributed to NeuroMetrix scaling back its advertising efforts since last year’s major push. However, the company is also contending with excess stock of Quell 2.0 parts that racked up $1.9 million in inventory costs during the quarter, reports MobiHealthNews.

“It is a process that will take time, and ultimately some financial resources,” Gozani said. “Consistent with our commitment to evaluate all options for the business, in parallel, we are exploring options to sell some or all of the Quell business and intellectual property.”

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Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) have developed smart wearable patch that can be worn like a band-aid. Their innovation, called ElectroDermis, represents new advances in electronic skin patches that are stretchy and conform to the body. The device can be used for a variety of medical, fitness, or lifestyle purposes.

“We envision a future where electronics can be temporarily attached to the body, but in functional and aesthetically pleasing way,” wrote the researchers.

Related KIST Researchers Develop Hydrogel-Based High-Performance Sensors for Wearables

The project is a combined effort from engineers at Carnegie Mellon’s Soft Machines Lab and Morphing Matter Lab.

For the developers of wearable devices, the challenge has been finding a way to make these devices flexible. But the research team led by Eric Markvicka and Guanyun Wang, wanted to make a more complicated device, which involves components for signal processing, wireless communication and power. The CMU researchers made the wiring from copper sheets cut in a wavy form to make them bend more easily.

“Specifically, we achieve high functionality by discretizing rigid print circuit boards into individual islands,” the researchers explained. “The islands are then assembled on a spandex-blend fabric to increase robustness and reusability.”

They also concocted a multilayered fabrication method by putting fabric over TPU film, copper trace, z-tape, electrical components, and skin adhesive. This gives the wearer full mobility and makes it possible for the piece to be reusable, as the adhesive layer can simply be replaced.

Related Carnegie Mellon Researchers Develop Ultra-Thin Electronic Tattoos that Can Power Wearables

ElectroDermis patches can be made in less than an hour and last on the body for hours or days.

The scientists say their new device could be applied to monitor vital signs, track fitness markers, measure food consumption or make a smart wound healing bandage.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch was launched in August 2018. So, as August 2019 begins it’s already time to start thinking about its successor. There’s a strong possibility that Samsung’s newest smartwatch – likely called the Galaxy Watch 2 – will land in August 2019.

Read more Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Active 2 Will Come in 3 Models and ECG

Previously, many thought that Samsung would release Galaxy Watch 2 alongside the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 on August 7. But since it didn’t happen, it could be months before we see Galaxy Watch 2 hitting the market.

“The only release date rumor takes the form of leaked timeline documents which suggest the Samsung Galaxy Watch 2 will land in quarter 3 of 2019, meaning any time between now and the end of September. However, there’s a high chance that if accurate these were actually referring to the Galaxy Watch Active 2,” reports James Rogerson in Tech Radar.

There isn’t much information about the design of Galaxy Watch 2 but it’s been reported that Samsung made fairly major improvements to the new watch. The original Galaxy Watch was actually fairly bulky, heavy, and wasn’t nearly as lightweight as, say, the Apple Watch.

According to rumors, Samsung may give the Galaxy Watch 2 a sleek new design to match the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active.

There is likely to be a round face and a rotating bezel for navigating Tizen, but the folks would greatly appreciate a slimmer and more premium-looking case.

Samsung may make a big change in the software by switching from its own Tizen software to Google’s Wear OS. This move by Samsung was widely rumored in 2018, but in the end the Korean tech giant stuck with Tizen for the Galaxy Watch. If Samsung makes this change for the Galaxy Watch 2, then rotating bezel will also be changed.

Read more Marvell, Samsung Extend Long-Term Partnership for 5G Wireless Networks

Whichever OS Samsung chooses, we can be sure that the Galaxy Watch 2 will pack a wide range of health and fitness tracking features – either through Samsung Health app, or with Google Fit.

As for price, there aren’t any rumors yet, but the original Galaxy Watch started at $329 (for the smaller 42mm version), so the Galaxy Watch 2 will probably cost at least that much.

PlayerMaker is a performance insight product for football teams. It’s a complete coaching tool which tracks and analyses metrics for physical, technical, tactical and biomechanical data as well auto-tagging video for fast and easy analysis.

The PlayerMaker strap houses a 6-axis motion sensor with accelerometer and gyro units that measure acceleration and radial velocity at 1000 times per second. Unique motion sensors on a player’s boot provide a significantly larger dataset than any other product. They detect every ball touch and build accurate gait profiles – without affecting performance.

The machine learning algorithms determine between different movements. Data is instantly sent to the analysis platform on the iPad Using BluetoothTM. Encased in unique durable silicon, the sensor is safe under impact in all playing conditions, and its position does not impact player performance.

Related New York City FC Partners with PLAYR Soccer GPS Tracking System

The company said it built the world’s largest football database over four years and used it to ‘teach’ their advanced machine learning algorithms to play football. They can determine football movements and handle unpredictable situations. The technology has been tested by top universities and proven to be very accurate.

Case Studies

Millwall Football Club

Dan Mlinar, lead Youth Development Phase Coach at Millwall Football Club in London, has been coaching youth football teams for 9 years. He was introduced to PlayerMaker in January 2018.

“Quite simply, the players put the sensors on their boots before entering the field; we deliver the session and 5 minutes after training finishes, we already have the data on the team’s profile page within the PlayerMaker dashboard,” Milnar said.

“PlayerMaker allows me to analyze the technical and physical abilities of my players and trialists. I use PlayerMaker to analyze my sessions; ensuring we achieved the outcome we wanted for the players.”

A few months later, Millwall FC Academy implemented the PlayerMaker smart footwear for the U16s team.

“The amount of data collected means we get a holistic understanding of what’s happening every time the player is out in the field,” said Jim Summersby, the Sports Scientist for the U16 players.

Related How Wearables Could Help Gloomy US Soccer Get Back on Track

Maccabi Tel Aviv

Maccabi Tel Aviv is another football team that benefited from the Playermaker.

Ilan Richardson, Head of Sports Science at Maccabi Tel Aviv. Using a mix of PlayerMaker’s own software and its integration capabilities with other systems, Ilan is able to see how players are progressing over time as well as a get a more complete understanding about whether teams are hitting their goals for training sessions.

Playermaker helps provide coaches at Maccavi Tel Aviv a holistic view about how the academy is performing, allowing them to make sure that the footballing philosophy of the team is being embraced by the entire staff.

Nowadays, no-one needs a key to open or start a modern car. That’s the task of miniature computers, which are designed by car manufacturers to perform an increasing number of functions. These smart keys can do quite a lot more. For example, they provide information about the oil level, the distance that can still be travelled, the filling level of the petrol tank, the status of the doors and windows and the control of the fully automated parking and manoeuvring. In order to be able to complete all of these tasks smoothly, rechargeable lithium ion batteries with a high energy density and capacity are required, which also need to be very robust and reliable at the same time.

The provision of energy in a tiny space is playing a growing role in an increasing number of aspects of modern mobility and health. As well as cars, this is also the case with hearables, which are worn on or in the ear. They not only facilitate hearing, but also offer a wide range of other functions, such as listening to music, hands-free telephony, voice amplification or simultaneous translation. As well as classic hearing aids, hearables include over-ear headphones and wireless telephony earbuds.

From hearables and step counters in shoes to fitness trackers with vital data measurements, these devices are always only as good as their energy supply. Standards are high, as they need to be reliable and durable. This is where the CoinPower button cells from VARTA Microbattery often come in use for wearables, with their small size, high energy density and extraordinary mechanical stability. Short charging times, a high degree of reliability and a robust structure round off their profile. The smallest models, the CP 7840 and CP 9440, are just four millimetres thick and have been developed with headphones, fitness wristbands and smart keys in mind. However, they are also being increasingly used in medical equipment.

The form and high energy density of the CoinPower series makes these microbatteries the ideal solution for wearables and medical devices. They have an energy density that is up to 30 percent higher than comparable batteries available on the market. Miniaturisation is making constant progress, as Philipp Miehlich, General Manager OEM at VARTA Microbattery GmbH, explains: “In this segment, we have developed unique competitive advantages and are benefiting from the shift in technology away from cylindrical battery cells to coin format batteries. We have been supporting this change in technology for wireless headphones with our leading technology, and are setting the standards in the industry in this area with our stream of new innovations.” The CoinPower series will be produced using fully automated processes in one of the most state of the art European production sites in Ellwangen.

A video just recently produced by VARTA Microbattery tells you all you need to know about the wide range of uses of the CoinPower series.

About VARTA AG
VARTA AG, as the parent company of the Group, is active in the Microbatteries and Power&Energy business segments through its subsidiaries VARTA Microbattery GmbH and VARTA Storage GmbH. Today, VARTA Microbattery GmbH is already an innovation leader in the field of microbatteries, one of the market leaders for hearing aid batteries and is also striving for market leadership for lithium-ion batteries in the wearables sector, especially for hearables. Power&Energy focuses on intelligent energy solutions for tailor-made battery storage systems for OEM customers as well as on the design, system integration and assembly of stationary lithium-ion energy storage systems. With five production and manufacturing facilities in Europe and Asia as well as sales centers in Asia, Europe and the USA, the operating subsidiaries of the VARTA AG Group are currently active in over 75 countries worldwide.

Fitbit’s earnings call for Q2 2019 show that the company’s revenue and device sales were up but the average price of the devices was down. This has led to Fitbit to lower its revenue guidance by $95 million.

Related Fitbit and Solera Health Expand Collaboration to Reduce Type 2 Diabetes Risk

The company reported revenue of $314 million, GAAP net loss per share of $(0.27), non-GAAP net loss per share of $(0.14), GAAP net loss of $(69) million, non-GAAP net loss of $(36) million, cash used in operations of $(76) million and free cash flow of $(81) million for its second quarter of 2019.

“While we are disappointed to lower guidance for the year, we remain confident in our long-term transformation strategy and have demonstrated good results across key areas of the business. We saw growth in devices sold, increased active users and continued growth in our Fitbit Health Solutions channel, up 42% in the first half of 2019,” said James Park, co-founder and CEO. “In addition, we have made progress in diversifying our revenue towards building more predictable, recurring revenue streams with the launch of our premium services in two test markets. We are pleased with the initial results and expect a full launch this fall. Coupled with innovative hardware and software offerings, we believe we’re well positioned to bring more users to the Fitbit platform and continue to grow our business.”

The wearable giant also experienced poor sales on its Versa Lite, which was released in Q1. CFO Ronald Kisling said these sales were $150 million below the initial expectation, reports MobiHealthNews.

“We subsequently reduced our Versa Lite sales expectations for the remainder of the year and are lowering our full-year 2019 revenue gross margin guidance,” James Park, CEO of Fitbit, said during the earnings call. “We attribute the Versa weakness to our pricing go-to-market strategy.”

Fitibit is seeing growth in its Fitbit Health Services (FHS), which increased to 16% to $24 million, bringing the company’s total revenue in 2019 to $54 million. According to Park, part of the success is due to partnerships with payers.

Related Fitbit Pay Will Now Work with NYC Subway or Bus Fares

“So one of the factors in our growth and the increased performance of FHS is our Fitbit Care business and the pipeline, and Fitbit Care again is our health coaching offering that allows health plans and employees and their employers and members to manage chronic disease conditions like diabetes,” Park said. “So that pipeline is continuing to grow, and we've already started the rollout of bundled offerings, where our devices are actually coupled with Fitbit Care and its associated digital interventions along with a coach.”

Fitbit’s earnings call for Q2 2019 show that the company’s revenue and device sales were up but the average price of the devices was down. This has led to Fitbit to lower its revenue guidance by $95 million.

Related Fitbit and Solera Health Expand Collaboration to Reduce Type 2 Diabetes Risk

The company reported revenue of $314 million, GAAP net loss per share of $(0.27), non-GAAP net loss per share of $(0.14), GAAP net loss of $(69) million, non-GAAP net loss of $(36) million, cash used in operations of $(76) million and free cash flow of $(81) million for its second quarter of 2019.

“While we are disappointed to lower guidance for the year, we remain confident in our long-term transformation strategy and have demonstrated good results across key areas of the business. We saw growth in devices sold, increased active users and continued growth in our Fitbit Health Solutions channel, up 42% in the first half of 2019,” said James Park, co-founder and CEO. “In addition, we have made progress in diversifying our revenue towards building more predictable, recurring revenue streams with the launch of our premium services in two test markets. We are pleased with the initial results and expect a full launch this fall. Coupled with innovative hardware and software offerings, we believe we’re well positioned to bring more users to the Fitbit platform and continue to grow our business.”

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The wearable giant also experienced poor sales on its Versa Lite, which was released in Q1. CFO Ronald Kisling said these sales were $150 million below the initial expectation, reports MobiHealthNews.

“We subsequently reduced our Versa Lite sales expectations for the remainder of the year and are lowering our full-year 2019 revenue gross margin guidance,” James Park, CEO of Fitbit, said during the earnings call. “We attribute the Versa weakness to our pricing go-to-market strategy.”

Fitibit is seeing growth in its Fitbit Health Services (FHS), which increased to 16% to $24 million, bringing the company’s total revenue in 2019 to $54 million. According to Park, part of the success is due to partnerships with payers.

Related Fitbit Pay Will Now Work with NYC Subway or Bus Fares

“So one of the factors in our growth and the increased performance of FHS is our Fitbit Care business and the pipeline, and Fitbit Care again is our health coaching offering that allows health plans and employees and their employers and members to manage chronic disease conditions like diabetes,” Park said. “So that pipeline is continuing to grow, and we've already started the rollout of bundled offerings, where our devices are actually coupled with Fitbit Care and its associated digital interventions along with a coach.”

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Nowadays, no-one needs a key to open or start a modern car. That’s the task of miniature computers, which are designed by car manufacturers to perform an increasing number of functions. These smart keys can do quite a lot more. For example, they provide information about the oil level, the distance that can still be travelled, the filling level of the petrol tank, the status of the doors and windows and the control of the fully automated parking and manoeuvring. In order to be able to complete all of these tasks smoothly, rechargeable lithium ion batteries with a high energy density and capacity are required, which also need to be very robust and reliable at the same time.

The provision of energy in a tiny space is playing a growing role in an increasing number of aspects of modern mobility and health. As well as cars, this is also the case with hearables, which are worn on or in the ear. They not only facilitate hearing, but also offer a wide range of other functions, such as listening to music, hands-free telephony, voice amplification or simultaneous translation. As well as classic hearing aids, hearables include over-ear headphones and wireless telephony earbuds.

From hearables and step counters in shoes to fitness trackers with vital data measurements, these devices are always only as good as their energy supply. Standards are high, as they need to be reliable and durable. This is where the CoinPower button cells from VARTA Microbattery often come in use for wearables, with their small size, high energy density and extraordinary mechanical stability. Short charging times, a high degree of reliability and a robust structure round off their profile. The smallest models, the CP 7840 and CP 9440, are just four millimetres thick and have been developed with headphones, fitness wristbands and smart keys in mind. However, they are also being increasingly used in medical equipment.

The form and high energy density of the CoinPower series makes these microbatteries the ideal solution for wearables and medical devices. They have an energy density that is up to 30 percent higher than comparable batteries available on the market. Miniaturisation is making constant progress, as Philipp Miehlich, General Manager OEM at VARTA Microbattery GmbH, explains: “In this segment, we have developed unique competitive advantages and are benefiting from the shift in technology away from cylindrical battery cells to coin format batteries. We have been supporting this change in technology for wireless headphones with our leading technology, and are setting the standards in the industry in this area with our stream of new innovations.” The CoinPower series will be produced using fully automated processes in one of the most state of the art European production sites in Ellwangen.

A video just recently produced by VARTA Microbattery tells you all you need to know about the wide range of uses of the CoinPower series.

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About VARTA AGVARTA AG, as the parent company of the Group, is active in the Microbatteries and Power&Energy business segments through its subsidiaries VARTA Microbattery GmbH and VARTA Storage GmbH. Today, VARTA Microbattery GmbH is already an innovation leader in the field of microbatteries, one of the market leaders for hearing aid batteries and is also striving for market leadership for lithium-ion batteries in the wearables sector, especially for hearables. Power&Energy focuses on intelligent energy solutions for tailor-made battery storage systems for OEM customers as well as on the design, system integration and assembly of stationary lithium-ion energy storage systems. With five production and manufacturing facilities in Europe and Asia as well as sales centers in Asia, Europe and the USA, the operating subsidiaries of the VARTA AG Group are currently active in over 75 countries worldwide.

PlayerMaker is a performance insight product for football teams. It’s a complete coaching tool which tracks and analyses metrics for physical, technical, tactical and biomechanical data as well auto-tagging video for fast and easy analysis.

The PlayerMaker strap houses a 6-axis motion sensor with accelerometer and gyro units that measure acceleration and radial velocity at 1000 times per second. Unique motion sensors on a player’s boot provide a significantly larger dataset than any other product. They detect every ball touch and build accurate gait profiles – without affecting performance.

The machine learning algorithms determine between different movements. Data is instantly sent to the analysis platform on the iPad Using BluetoothTM. Encased in unique durable silicon, the sensor is safe under impact in all playing conditions, and its position does not impact player performance.

Related New York City FC Partners with PLAYR Soccer GPS Tracking System

The company said it built the world’s largest football database over four years and used it to ‘teach’ their advanced machine learning algorithms to play football. They can determine football movements and handle unpredictable situations. The technology has been tested by top universities and proven to be very accurate.

Case Studies

Millwall Football Club

Dan Mlinar, lead Youth Development Phase Coach at Millwall Football Club in London, has been coaching youth football teams for 9 years. He was introduced to PlayerMaker in January 2018.

“Quite simply, the players put the sensors on their boots before entering the field; we deliver the session and 5 minutes after training finishes, we already have the data on the team’s profile page within the PlayerMaker dashboard,” Milnar said.

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“PlayerMaker allows me to analyze the technical and physical abilities of my players and trialists. I use PlayerMaker to analyze my sessions; ensuring we achieved the outcome we wanted for the players.”

A few months later, Millwall FC Academy implemented the PlayerMaker smart footwear for the U16s team.

“The amount of data collected means we get a holistic understanding of what’s happening every time the player is out in the field,” said Jim Summersby, the Sports Scientist for the U16 players.

Related How Wearables Could Help Gloomy US Soccer Get Back on Track

Maccabi Tel Aviv

Maccabi Tel Aviv is another football team that benefited from the Playermaker.

Ilan Richardson, Head of Sports Science at Maccabi Tel Aviv. Using a mix of PlayerMaker’s own software and its integration capabilities with other systems, Ilan is able to see how players are progressing over time as well as a get a more complete understanding about whether teams are hitting their goals for training sessions.

Playermaker helps provide coaches at Maccavi Tel Aviv a holistic view about how the academy is performing, allowing them to make sure that the footballing philosophy of the team is being embraced by the entire staff.

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The Samsung Galaxy Watch was launched in August 2018. So, as August 2019 begins it’s already time to start thinking about its successor. There’s a strong possibility that Samsung’s newest smartwatch – likely called the Galaxy Watch 2 – will land in August 2019.

Read more Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Active 2 Will Come in 3 Models and ECG

Previously, many thought that Samsung would release Galaxy Watch 2 alongside the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 on August 7. But since it didn’t happen, it could be months before we see Galaxy Watch 2 hitting the market.

“The only release date rumor takes the form of leaked timeline documents which suggest the Samsung Galaxy Watch 2 will land in quarter 3 of 2019, meaning any time between now and the end of September. However, there's a high chance that if accurate these were actually referring to the Galaxy Watch Active 2,” reports James Rogerson in Tech Radar.

There isn’t much information about the design of Galaxy Watch 2 but it’s been reported that Samsung made fairly major improvements to the new watch. The original Galaxy Watch was actually fairly bulky, heavy, and wasn’t nearly as lightweight as, say, the Apple Watch.

According to rumors, Samsung may give the Galaxy Watch 2 a sleek new design to match the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active.

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There is likely to be a round face and a rotating bezel for navigating Tizen, but the folks would greatly appreciate a slimmer and more premium-looking case.

Samsung may make a big change in the software by switching from its own Tizen software to Google’s Wear OS. This move by Samsung was widely rumored in 2018, but in the end the Korean tech giant stuck with Tizen for the Galaxy Watch. If Samsung makes this change for the Galaxy Watch 2, then rotating bezel will also be changed.

Read more Marvell, Samsung Extend Long-Term Partnership for 5G Wireless Networks

Whichever OS Samsung chooses, we can be sure that the Galaxy Watch 2 will pack a wide range of health and fitness tracking features – either through Samsung Health app, or with Google Fit.

As for price, there aren’t any rumors yet, but the original Galaxy Watch started at $329 (for the smaller 42mm version), so the Galaxy Watch 2 will probably cost at least that much.

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Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) have developed smart wearable patch that can be worn like a band-aid. Their innovation, called ElectroDermis, represents new advances in electronic skin patches that are stretchy and conform to the body. The device can be used for a variety of medical, fitness, or lifestyle purposes.

“We envision a future where electronics can be temporarily attached to the body, but in functional and aesthetically pleasing way,” wrote the researchers.

Related KIST Researchers Develop Hydrogel-Based High-Performance Sensors for Wearables

The project is a combined effort from engineers at Carnegie Mellon’s Soft Machines Lab and Morphing Matter Lab.

For the developers of wearable devices, the challenge has been finding a way to make these devices flexible. But the research team led by Eric Markvicka and Guanyun Wang, wanted to make a more complicated device, which involves components for signal processing, wireless communication and power. The CMU researchers made the wiring from copper sheets cut in a wavy form to make them bend more easily.

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“Specifically, we achieve high functionality by discretizing rigid print circuit boards into individual islands,” the researchers explained. “The islands are then assembled on a spandex-blend fabric to increase robustness and reusability.”

They also concocted a multilayered fabrication method by putting fabric over TPU film, copper trace, z-tape, electrical components, and skin adhesive. This gives the wearer full mobility and makes it possible for the piece to be reusable, as the adhesive layer can simply be replaced.

Related Carnegie Mellon Researchers Develop Ultra-Thin Electronic Tattoos that Can Power Wearables

ElectroDermis patches can be made in less than an hour and last on the body for hours or days.

The scientists say their new device could be applied to monitor vital signs, track fitness markers, measure food consumption or make a smart wound healing bandage.

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Apple has been continuing its efforts to establish itself in the healthcare platform by adding health monitoring features to its iPhone and smartwatch. Now, the company has teamed up with Eli Lilly to see if data from Apple devices can help identify early signs of dementia. The results of the feasibility study showed that sensors from consumer-grade devices like iPhones, Apple Watches, iPads and Beddit sleep monitors can spot mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease.

Related German Researchers Develop Sensor-Packed Wristband to Improve Lives of Dementia Patients

“Over the past few years, we’ve seen how data and insights derived from wearables and mobile consumer devices have enabled people living with health conditions, along with their clinicians, to better monitor their health,” Nikki Marinsek, data scientist at Evidation Health and the study’s first author, said in a statement. “We know that insights from smart devices and digital applications can lead to improved health outcomes but we don’t yet know how those resources can be used to identify and accelerate diagnoses. The results of the trial set the groundwork for future research that may be able to help identify people with neurodegenerative conditions earlier than ever before.”

For the study, the team recruited 113 participants, of whom 31 were suffering from dementia and other cognitive impairments. The control group of 82 participants were free from any type of cognitive ailments. All participants were provided an iPhone, Apple Watch and Beddit sleep tracker and were asked to refrain from treating symptoms with medication during the test phase.

The researchers used sensors in the iPhone to track steps taken, while data was pulled from apps that incorporate typing functions. The handset was also used to conduct a daily survey. Apple Watch tracked movement, heart rate, workout sessions, app usage, breathe sessions, hours standing and other metrics, while Beddit was employed to measure a user’s circadian rhythm.

The study found that people with symptoms of cognitive decline typed more slowly, typed less regularly and sent fewer text messages than healthy participants. They also have a greater reliance on support apps and are less inclined to fill out surveys. Still, the researchers said there are limitations to the study, which didn’t draw any long-term conclusions because more analysis is needed.

Related Wearable Tech Can Safely Detect Atrial Fibrillation, Says Apple Heart Study

There’s also the risk of presenting results to patients because of the increased anxiety it can cause. Plus, the authors write, there’s not much people can do to stem the decline.

The study will be discussed on Thursday at a conference in Alaska.

Italian lifestyle brand bONE Tech has introduced IceBRKR – the world's first ski goggles to integrate bone conduction audio and Bluetooth 5.0 MESH Intercom technology. The goggles are designed to make the skiing or snowboarding experience safer and more entertaining. The Kickstarter Campaign, which was launched on August 8 raised $46,265, surpassing its funding goal of $30,000 USD in just a few days.

Related Don’t Let Injuries Take You Downhill, Be Safe and Have Fun with These Skiing Wearables This Winter

IceBRKR provides a comfortable fit with its patented bendable arms that pivot to assure gentle but constant contact between the transducer and the user's ears. It delivers amazing sound for making calls or listening to music all while allowing users to hear what's going on around them. The arms' patented design is so flexible that users can also choose to place them directly over their helmet to give an incredible 360-degree sound experience (sound is delivered through the vibrations of the helmet shell). The audio perception is perfect, and in stereo without resorting to using headphones, earphones and external microphones, making the sound experience complete and comfortable, said the company in a press release.

“IceBRKR is the answer to staying as connected as you want to be on the slopes,” said CEO Marco Collini, founder of bONE Tech. “You can take calls, listen to music or podcasts, all without removing your gloves or mask or blocking out the sound around you.”

With its incorporated Bluetooth 5.0 MESH Intercom technology, IceBRKR recognizes compatible MESH devices that are paired together (from 2 to 18 devices) and easily connects with them at a radius of up to 1 mile. The pairing is intuitive, and once initiated, remains active lasting for 72 hours in stand-by and 24 in continuous use. When the system recognizes the devices, it will pair immediately.

Functions such as the control and the on/off button are located on the lower part of the goggles’ frame. Also located on the lower part of the frame are an App control key and the conference function activation key (with pairing modes).

Related Atomic Unveils Smart Connected Ski Boot

A light/sound feedback (blue/red LED) signals the connection and pairing active/dropped with other IceBRKR masks and/or devices. The incorporated bi-directional microphone is located near the vocal emission source.  The buttons are "invisible" but naturally accessible without having to remove the glove or look at the frame.

IceBRKR’s impeccable design features a magnetic, swappable dual lens with proprietary geometry that mimics the anatomical curvature of the eye to maximize peripheral vision and minimize distortion, as well as polarized lenses with an iridium coating to minimize glare and heighten contrast.

Italian lifestyle brand bONE Tech has introduced IceBRKR – the world's first ski goggles to integrate bone conduction audio and Bluetooth 5.0 MESH Intercom technology. The goggles are designed to make the skiing or snowboarding experience safer and more entertaining. The Kickstarter Campaign, which was launched on August 8 raised $46,265, surpassing its funding goal of $30,000 USD in just a few days.

Related Don’t Let Injuries Take You Downhill, Be Safe and Have Fun with These Skiing Wearables This Winter

IceBRKR provides a comfortable fit with its patented bendable arms that pivot to assure gentle but constant contact between the transducer and the user's ears. It delivers amazing sound for making calls or listening to music all while allowing users to hear what's going on around them. The arms' patented design is so flexible that users can also choose to place them directly over their helmet to give an incredible 360-degree sound experience (sound is delivered through the vibrations of the helmet shell). The audio perception is perfect, and in stereo without resorting to using headphones, earphones and external microphones, making the sound experience complete and comfortable, said the company in a press release.

“IceBRKR is the answer to staying as connected as you want to be on the slopes,” said CEO Marco Collini, founder of bONE Tech. “You can take calls, listen to music or podcasts, all without removing your gloves or mask or blocking out the sound around you.”

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‍

With its incorporated Bluetooth 5.0 MESH Intercom technology, IceBRKR recognizes compatible MESH devices that are paired together (from 2 to 18 devices) and easily connects with them at a radius of up to 1 mile. The pairing is intuitive, and once initiated, remains active lasting for 72 hours in stand-by and 24 in continuous use. When the system recognizes the devices, it will pair immediately.

Functions such as the control and the on/off button are located on the lower part of the goggles’ frame. Also located on the lower part of the frame are an App control key and the conference function activation key (with pairing modes).

Related Atomic Unveils Smart Connected Ski Boot

A light/sound feedback (blue/red LED) signals the connection and pairing active/dropped with other IceBRKR masks and/or devices. The incorporated bi-directional microphone is located near the vocal emission source.  The buttons are "invisible" but naturally accessible without having to remove the glove or look at the frame.

IceBRKR’s impeccable design features a magnetic, swappable dual lens with proprietary geometry that mimics the anatomical curvature of the eye to maximize peripheral vision and minimize distortion, as well as polarized lenses with an iridium coating to minimize glare and heighten contrast.

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