Sign up to save tools and stay up to date with the latest in AI
bg
bg
1

This Startup Repurposes Android Smartphones to Measure Air Quality: Here's How It Works

Dec 19, 2023 - techtimes.com
MobilePhysics, a startup led by Nobel Prize winner Roger Kornberg, is developing a technology that uses Android smartphone sensors to measure air quality. The technology, which is embedded in Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, measures PM2.5 pollutant particles and provides users with real-time insights into their environment. The technology also offers proactive safety notifications, advising users on actions to improve air quality or protect themselves from prolonged sun exposure.

The technology operates seamlessly in the background, similar to Apple's use of sensors in the Apple Watch for health metrics. While no smartphones currently come preinstalled with MobilePhysics, successful testing has been conducted on the Google Pixel 8 and Xiaomi 11 Ultra. Looking forward, MobilePhysics plans to enhance edge AI implementations and incorporate more sensors and cameras in smartphones to broaden the scope of measurable parameters and refine result accuracy.

Key takeaways:

  • MobilePhysics, a startup, is using Android smartphone sensors to measure air quality, providing users with real-time insights into their environment.
  • The technology, embedded in Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, focuses on measuring PM2.5 pollutant particles and provides passive assessments as users engage with their phones.
  • MobilePhysics also provides real-time notifications to users about their environment, such as advising users to seek cover after prolonged sun exposure or suggesting actions for improved air quality.
  • The technology is a significant stride towards tackling the critical issue of poor air quality globally, serving as a preventive measure and raising awareness about the severity of air quality concerns.
View Full Article

Comments (0)

Be the first to comment!