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AirPods — Apple’s truly wireless stereo (TWS) earphones — could double as a health monitoring tool in the future, according to a patent application recently published by the US Patent Office (USPTO). The Cupertino company appears to have invented an AirPods sensor mechanism that would allow the earphones to monitor electrical impulses from the wearer’s brain. The patent describes a system that can monitor brain activity that is typically monitored with the use of electrodes on a patient’s head but the use of AirPods could provide a more discreet way to monitor brain activity.

A patent recently published on the USPTO website describes a wearable electronic device like Apple’s AirPods that is equipped with electrodes, similar to traditional devices used to monitor biosignals such as brain activity, including electroencephalography, electrooculography, galvanic skin response, blood volume pulse, and electromyography. This could allow an AirPods wearer to monitor their brain activity even when they are travelling, without the need for a machine.

Unlike the traditional EEG monitors that are attached to a user’s scalp, the AirPods are likely to move once they are inserted in a user’s ear. In order to account for the fact that ear shape and size can vary, the patent describes a system that integrates active and reference electrodes on the external body of the AirPods’ body, along with several additional electrodes located at different positions on the eartip.

Apple’s patent abstract states the “wearable electronic device includes a sensor circuit and a switching circuit. The switching circuit is operable to electrically connect a number of different subsets of one or more electrodes in the set of electrodes to the sensor circuit.” While the description might sound a little convoluted, the company has included a diagram (figure 2) of the purported device that shows the position of the electrodes on the wireless earphones.

airpods biosensors patent uspto screenshot airpods biosensors

Diagrams from Apple’s patent application show how the technology would work
Photo Credit: Apple (via USPTO)

These AirPods’ eartips will be replaceable, according to Apple’s patent application, which also described a mechanism (figure 5) that allows a user to tap a section of the earphone’s body to start measurement of biosignals.

Meanwhile, another diagram (figure 10) shows the location of both the electrodes on the eartip and the touch sensitive area from a different angle, while suggesting that the functionality could also be supported on wired earphones such as EarPods or a pair of glasses — the reference and active electrodes would be placed on the first and second stem of the glasses, according to the document. 

It is currently unclear whether Apple plans to bring the ability to measure biosignals to its popular AirPods and other wearable devices, while a recent report suggests that the company is exploring ways to add new health features such as temperature monitoring to its earphones. Apple is also working on ways to enhance its existing health monitoring products and is reportedly working on adding non-invasive blood sugar monitoring to the Apple Watch, which is expected to make its way to a future version of the wearable device.


Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 alongside the Galaxy Tab S9 series and Galaxy Watch 6 series at its first Galaxy Unpacked event in South Korea. We discuss the company’s new devices and more on the latest episode of Orbital, the Gadgets 360 podcast. Orbital is available on Spotify, Gaana, JioSaavn, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and wherever you get your podcasts.
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Awareness of Pancreatic Cancer Low Among Adults Under 50, Study Finds

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Awareness of Pancreatic Cancer Low Among Adults Under 50, Study Finds

The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center—Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC—James) recently conducted a survey revealing a worrying knowledge gap about pancreatic cancer in adults under 50. Although pancreatic cancer is increasingly diagnosed in younger people, the survey found that over half of respondents did not recognise its early symptoms, and around a third mistakenly believed that only older individuals are at risk. Many were also unaware of how lifestyle changes could help reduce the likelihood of this disease.

Rising Diagnoses in People Under 50 Spark Concerns

Dr Zobeida Cruz-Monserrate, co-leader of the Molecular Carcinogenesis and Chemoprevention Programme at OSUCCC—James, highlighted that pancreatic cancer rates in younger age groups have been growing by roughly 1% each year. Dr Cruz-Monserrate pointed to this shift as both unusual and concerning. As pancreatic cancer often goes undetected until advanced stages, reducing the effectiveness of available treatments.

Factors Influencing Pancreatic Cancer Risk

While genetics account for about 10 percent of pancreatic cancer cases, lifestyle factors play a significant role in determining an individual’s risk. Data from the American Cancer Society indicate that obesity, for instance, increases one’s lifetime risk of pancreatic cancer by as much as 20 percent. Dr Cruz-Monserrate emphasised that a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and limited alcohol intake can positively influence not only pancreatic cancer risk but overall health as well.

Exploring Preventive Measures and Early Detection

At OSUCCC—James, research is underway to develop early detection methods for pancreatic cancer, such as minimally invasive tests for pancreatic cysts. Additionally, researchers are examining the potential connections between chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, and pancreatic cancer. Until more targeted screening is available, Dr Cruz-Monserrate advises focusing on lifestyle adjustments that can help minimise risks.

Ongoing Efforts in Detection and Prevention

With pancreatic cancer remaining one of the most challenging cancers to treat, increased public awareness and preventative lifestyle choices are critical.

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First Dinosaur Fossils Unearthed in Hong Kong’s Port Island, Revealing Ancient History



Record-Breaking Marine Predation Event Provides Insights into Ocean Ecosystems

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Hong Kong Discovers Dinosaur Fossils for the First Time

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Hong Kong Discovers Dinosaur Fossils for the First Time

In an unprecedented find for Hong Kong, scientists have uncovered the city’s first-ever dinosaur fossils on Port Island. Preliminary analysis suggests that the bones likely belonged to a large Cretaceous-era dinosaur, an era dating back 145 to 66 million years. Officials have stated that further studies are necessary to determine the specific species, marking an exciting step forward for Hong Kong’s contribution to palaeontology.

Discovery at Port Island: Hong Kong’s Geological Treasure

The fossilised remains were discovered within a UNESCO-recognised geopark on Hong Kong’s Port Island. The bones appeared scattered and weathered when it is unearthed. This gave a hint at a history of exposure to environmental elements. Officials speculate that the dinosaur’s remains were initially buried under sediment, later re-exposed by natural forces, and subsequently reburied. Dr Michael Pittman, Assistant Professor and dinosaur expert at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, highlights the significance of the find, acknowledging that locating dinosaur fossils is often difficult due to the specific geological requirements. According to Pittman, successful discoveries require the right type of rock formations from suitable time periods—a combination not easily found in Hong Kong.

An Important Milestone in Hong Kong’s Fossil Record

Although Hong Kong has previously revealed fossil remains from prehistoric marine life, this marks the city’s first confirmed dinosaur fossils. Previous fossil finds have included ostracods and ammonites from nearly 400 million years ago, yet no dinosaur remains had ever been documented until now. Officials noted that this discovery, rooted in Hong Kong’s rich geological layers, highlights the area’s potential for future fossil finds, particularly given similarities between the rock formations on Port Island and those in Guangdong, where extensive dinosaur remains have been recorded.

Public Exhibit to Feature Fossils and Live Research

Starting this Friday, the fossils will be on display at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre, offering the public a unique view into the city’s ancient history. The exhibit will later expand with a workshop and display area, where visitors can observe researchers at work. To support ongoing research, Port Island has been temporarily closed to the public, ensuring the preservation of this valuable site.

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Washington Bird Flu Cases in Farmworkers Rise; Low Risk of Wider Spread

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Washington Bird Flu Cases in Farmworkers Rise; Low Risk of Wider Spread

Four farmworkers have been diagnosed with presumed bird flu in the Washington state. This marked an unsettling trend in the spread of the virus among farm animals and occasional human cases across the United States. Health officials expect the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to verify these cases, which would bring the total reported human infections to 31 this year. With flu season approaching, experts are closely monitoring the virus to assess the risk of potential mutations that could alter its behaviour in humans.

Virus Transmission Risks Across Six States

Washington is now the sixth state to confirm human infections of bird flu. The virus is already widespread in wild birds, poultry, and even cows. And now it continues to persist across animal populations, potentially increasing human exposure. Dr. Amber Itle, Washington State’s veterinarian, expressed concern about the virus’s ability to adapt: “The longer this virus persists, the more unpredictable it becomes, which could bring us closer to another global pandemic.”

Although there is no current evidence that bird flu spreads easily among people, health authorities are focused on containing it within animal populations to prevent any further adaptation. The CDC’s spokesperson stated that a federal team would assist in managing the outbreak, with public risk levels remaining low for now.

Farmworker Safety Protocols and Recent Cases

The four new cases emerged in a crew handling bird culling operations at a commercial egg farm in Washington’s Franklin County. The facility, home to over 800,000 chickens, required the entire population to be euthanised following a local outbreak. Dr. Umair Shah, Washington’s Health Secretary, confirmed the workers wore protective equipment, including Tyvek suits and respirators, as they worked in close proximity to infected animals, facing high exposure to the virus.

These individuals reported mild symptoms, including respiratory issues and conjunctivitis, commonly associated with avian influenza. Although none required hospitalisation, health professionals continue to urge for stricter protocols to protect farmworkers, especially with the added risk of seasonal flu.

Animal Virus Control and Potential Risks

Dr. Richard Webby, director of the WHO Collaborating Centre for Influenza Studies, highlighted an unusual case in Missouri where a person was infected without any known animal contact. The presence of the virus in dairy cows has stirred greater concern, as cows frequently interact with humans, raising the risk of virus mutations that could potentially make it transmissible among people.
As flu season begins, experts worry that simultaneous infections in humans could allow for genetic exchanges between animal and human flu viruses. Dr. Peter Rabinowitz of the University of Washington stressed the importance of preventive measures, especially for frontline workers, describing the situation as a reminder to improve protection efforts.

With wild birds continuing to spread the virus through various means, the CDC reports that over 103 million birds have been affected. Although Washington’s dairy industry has not yet seen cases, local farms have ramped up testing, hoping to detect any early signs and keep both animal and human populations safe.

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