Google has learnt how to measure a person's heart rate using TWS headphones

Researchers at Google Research have unveiled audio plethysmography (APG) technology that can measure heart rate using ordinary wireless noise-cancelling headphones.

Details

APG involves sending a low-intensity ultrasound signal through the headphone speakers. This signal causes an echo that is picked up by the headphone microphones. When blood vessels deform, the volume of the ear canals changes slightly, so the heartbeat will modulate these ultrasonic echoes.

Thus, the technology does not require any additional sensors or equipment. It can even be added to existing headphones with an upgrade. Neither skin tone, ear canal size, nor the fit of the headphones affects the accuracy of the measurements.

Google scientists conducted a study involving 153 people. As it turned out, measuring heart rate with the help of audio plethysmography technology gives quite accurate results. When measuring heart rate, the average error is 3.21%, and heart rate variability - 2.7%.

Source: Google