Next-generation AirPods might come with in-ear electrodes to read brain waves

Apple has filed a patent for its next-generation AirPods that promises new health-tracking features, including in-ear electrodes for reading brain waves.

Apple explains, “The biosignals measured by the wearable electronic device may include, but are not limited to, an electroencephalography (EEG).” The company further says it might measure other biosignals like electromyography (EMG), electrooculography (EOG), an electrocardiogram (ECG), a galvanic skin response (GSR), and a blood volume pulse (BVP).

Apple might launch next-generation AirPods with in-ear electrodes

As you can see in the picture, some tiny electrodes are placed around the earbuds that might be used for reading brain waves. Of course, Apple says some users might need to configure both active and reference electrodes according to their ear form. Additionally, a user can tap on the side of the earbud to start electroencephalography or another measurement session.

The patent was granted to the company in July. However, it remains to be seen if its technology will be used in the next generation of AirPods. If it does, it would be a revolutionary addition to Apple AirPods.

Of course, Apple has just filed a patent for its idea, and it takes a lot of effort to turn this idea into an actual product. Reading brain waves through some tiny electrodes placed on the tip of an earbud would be the biggest challenge for the Cupertino-based company. Needless to say, Apple also needs to obtain necessary approvals from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Apple products are known for their unique and life-saving health-tracking features. There are multiple reported cases of an Apple health tracking feature in an Apple Watch that saved a user’s life. This time, the company is expanding its health kit to AirPods for reading brain waves. Yet, the functionality is vague, but the technology seems promising for the future. Apple AirPods is currently one of the best earbuds you can buy. Adding health tracking features to it would certainly enhance its value for potential buyers.