Spire (activity tracker)
Spire is a wearable activity tracker worn on the waistband or bra strap designed to analyze breath rates to determine levels of tension, calm, or focus.
Description
Spire launched preorders on June 17, 2014. It is currently compatible with Apple iOS devices running iOS 7.1 or higher. The device resembles a grey stone with a large clip on the side, and charges wirelessly with an included charging pad.
Reception
Spire has been discussed in articles by Popular Science, TechCrunch, and USA today. “Spire’s insights... can actually improve your life”—TechCrunch
Reviews are generally positive, observing the company’s approach to happiness as opposed to health, as well as the real-time updates and notifications. USA Today and TechCrunch point out a negative to the device being that it can be worn only on the waistband or bra strap.
Underlying science
The brain is connected to the lungs by the vagus nerve. Through this, stress triggers the fight-or-flight response, increasing respiratory rate, which in turn affects the rest of the body. Through monitoring breath rates, Spire claims to improve the user’s mental and physical health. Cofounder Neema Moraveji (PhD) designed the device from his work in respiratory psychophysiology at Stanford University’s Calming Technology Lab.
Specifications
- Stone: 32 mm x 44 mm x 14 mm
- Clasp: 52 mm x 12.5 mm
- Charger: 89 mm x 89 mm
- Battery Life: 7 days