Wearable tech and audio equipment maker Jawbone has acquired health technology player BodyMedia for an estimated US$100m. At the same time, Jawbone has unveiled its new UP wristband and iOS app ecosystem for fitness fans.
BodyMedia pioneered the development of wearable body monitors that collect physiological data for use in improving wellness and fitness.
The company’s around-the-clock body monitors have been clinically validated by the FDA for accuracy and are used by consumers as well as health and wellness professionals.
The company has more than 87 patents and has amassed one of the largest living databases of raw and real-world human sensor data from its body monitors, with more than 500trn sensor points collected and analysed in the last 14 years.
“There’s an enormous appetite for personal data and self-discovery among consumers that will only continue to grow,” said Jawbone CEO Hosain Rahman.
“Together, BodyMedia and Jawbone have almost three decades worth of deep tech, science and intellectual property around sophisticated sensors on the body and nearly 300 issued and pending patents around wearable technology.
“We look forward to pushing new boundaries, creating new markets and showing people what’s truly possible with wearable computing.”
Jawbone to take on Nike Fuel in growing wristband market
Jawbone, which is a gadget lover’s favourite in terms of its wireless speakers and Bluetooth headsets, has made a definitive move into the fitness wristband market occupied by Nike with its Fuel device.
The company has launched its new UP platform for iOS and 10 new apps that integrate with the UP wristband and app ecosystem.
It has also announced it will soon open the API for others to integrate services with UP or build new experiences.
Jawbone has teamed up with a variety of lifestyle, workout, food and other health-tracking services.
Beginning today, the UP app version 2.5 for iOS will enable users to integrate with 10 services; IFTTT, LoseIt!, Maxwell Health, MapMyFitness, MyFitnessPal, Notch, RunKeeper, Sleepio, Wello and Withings.
