It has been revealed that Microsoft is currently researching and testing a smart bra.
The smart bra is designed to look like an ordinary bra, secretly outfitted with a gyroscope, an accelerometer, an electrocardiogram and electro-dermal sensors. The bra will communicate with a smartphone app and is designed to help track the wearers mood in an effort to curb stress-related overeating. Microsoft research suggest that the bra was ideal since it was located close to heart and therefore able to collect EKG (electrocardiogram) data with ease.
While not expected to be released anytime soon, Microsoft's attempt to enhance an undergarment such as a bra speaks to companies overall desire to infuse technology into common everyday items, from Google's 'Google glass' to Sony's 'SmartWig' it appears that in the future finding something that doesn't have a chip in it will be very hard to do.
Tech-Infused Supportive Undergarments
Microsoft's Smart Bra is Designed to Help Stop Overeating
Trend Themes
1. Tech-infused Undergarments - The integration of technology into undergarments is a growing trend that offers disruptive innovation opportunities.
2. Wearable Sensors - The use of wearable sensors in clothing, such as bras, presents innovative opportunities to track and improve wellness.
3. Stress-tracking Devices - The development of stress-tracking devices, like Microsoft's smart bra, creates opportunities for managing stress-related behaviors and habits.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Tech - The fashion technology industry can explore the integration of sensors and smart features into undergarments for health and wellness purposes.
2. Healthcare Technology - The healthcare technology industry can leverage wearable sensors in undergarments to monitor and improve patient well-being.
3. Wellness and Fitness - The wellness and fitness industry can incorporate stress-tracking devices into their offerings to help individuals better manage their stress levels.