The year 2015 is speculated to be the best time for wearables and fitness trackers to gain a larger share in the market. More and more companies are investing in the health-side of technology with the creation of health-promoting apps, gadgets and wearables.
At the CES trade show in Las Vegas, baby-centric gadgets and devices have also emerged. These high-tech baby products have been designed to promote better health for the little ones and more peace of mind for the parents.
Most of the products work with the latest mobile devices, so there's no doubt that this arena of technology is vast and has a lot of room yet to be explored.
Here are some of the baby-targeted products that parents should watch out for.
Pacif-i Electronic Pacifier. Created by Blue Maestro, the Pacif-i sends body temperature data to a mobile phone or tablet through Bluetooth. It is designed with a proximity sensor to inform parents if the pacifier and, of course, the baby moved more than 20 feet away from the smartphone. The cost is $40.
Sproutling. While the Pacif-i is placed in the baby's mouth, Sproutling is strapped around the baby's ankle. This device is designed to track the baby's sleep patterns, moods and heart rates. It is unique in that it helps parents understand if the baby is alright even when the little one is quietly sleeping. Parents don't have to wait for the baby to cry when something is wrong. The wearable will be ready for shipment early 2015 and will be priced at $249.
Baby Glgl. The Baby Glgl is a Bluetooth-connected baby bottle holder that can keep track the amount of liquid prior to and after a feeding. The data, along with feeding duration and time, is recorded in the app. The aim is to keep a log on the last time the baby was fed. This is important when more than a few people, such as the parents, grandparents and baby-sitter, are tasked with feeding the baby.
TempTraq Wireless Baby Temperature Monitor. The TempTraq is a type of patch that functions like a thermometer in tracking temperature changes. The patch is only for one-time use and is placed under the child's arm. It becomes activated for 24 hours with one press of a button and sends temperature updates to a mobile device. It is currently under FDA pre-market review.
iSwimband module. The iSwimband module sends out a warning signal if it senses that a young swimmer has been staying under the water line for far too long. It is designed to fit into a headband or wristband and is worn with goggle straps. The alert can be set to go off after a certain amount of time. Parents can use the gadget to check how much time the young swimmer has been underwater or prevent their child from approaching the water altogether. The cost is $80.
VivaLnk eSkin Thermometer. Similar to TempTraq, the VivaLnk eSkin Thermometer works like a breathable patch that has the shape and design of a friendly bear. It is used by sticking it onto the sick baby's forehead, which would then allow a smartphone app to record the baby's temperature. The product is expected to launch in spring with pricing details to be announced soon.
