Keep calm: This screenless wearable alerts you to rising stress levels

By Courtesy of Nowatch

Not all connected watches tell the time. In fact, there's one model that doesn't have a screen at all, but which could prove highly useful in helping manage or prevent episodes of stress, while promoting better sleep.

Not all connected watches tell the time. In fact, there's one model that doesn't have a screen at all, but which could prove highly useful in helping manage or prevent episodes of stress, while promoting better sleep.

Based in the Netherlands, the Nowatch start-up proposes a new type of smartwatch, capable of providing real-time data on the user's physical and mental well-being. To do so, the "watch" measures parameters such as heart rate, as well as the activity of the sweat glands, thanks to various integrated sensors. In particular, it uses Philips' Biosensing technology.

Once on the wrist, this wearable can emit small vibrations to alert users to rising stress levels, allowing them to identify stressors and take appropriate action. It can also help improve the concentration and overall well-being of its user. According to the manufacturer, certain stress peaks could be detected up to 60 minutes in advance. The watch works regardless of the user's activity, whether resting, walking, running or playing sports. Regarding sleep, the watch measures the time spent in deep sleep each night. An accompanying application is on hand to track physiological data while offering advice and insights on how to live (and sleep) more serenely.

In this wearable, the screen is replaced by an interchangeable module featuring a gemstone. For the rest, this watch is 37mm in diameter and has an average battery life of 10 days per charge, which can obviously vary depending on use.

Different configurations are proposed for the watch case, the strap and the gemstone that features in place of the screen, all starting at €383. Note that a monthly subscription system allows you to benefit from personalized monitoring and recommendations.

This type of product joins the family of wearables designed to track health or physical activity, taking the form of watches, wristbands or even connected rings.

© Agence France-Presse