Earbuds Equipped with Electroencephalography (EEG), Apple files new Patent

Apple has filed a patent, US20230225659A1, for earbuds equipped with electroencephalography (EEG) sensors capable of monitoring brain activity through electrodes placed in or around the ear canal. This technology, described in a patent titled "Biosignal Sensing Device Using Dynamic Selection of Electrodes," aims to enable non-invasive brain monitoring for health insights such as seizure detection, stress assessment, and cognitive health tracking. The system uses multiple electrodes and dynamic selection algorithms, potentially enhanced by artificial intelligence, to adapt to individual ear anatomy and maintain signal quality.

• The patent outlines a system where electrodes on the earbud tips and stems can measure not only brainwaves but also muscle activity, eye movements, heart rate, and skin conductance.
• Apple’s approach focuses on minimizing visibility and movement of sensors by placing them on the non-planar surface of the earbud housing, improving comfort and stability during daily use.
• While the patent does not guarantee a commercial product, it reflects Apple’s ongoing strategy to expand the health-monitoring capabilities of its wearables beyond the Apple Watch and AirPods Pro.
• Concerns have been raised about privacy and data security, as brainwave data is considered highly sensitive personal information, with potential implications for user consent and regulatory oversight.

Read the full article at the original website.

References:

• https://patents.google.com/patent/US20230225659A1/en
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S001048252200796X