LG Innotek unveils ultra slim optical biometric sensor for smartphones and wearables

LG Innotek, the research arm of the company has announced a new ultra slim optical bio sensor module for wearable device and smartphone. The sensor is just 1mm thick (0.04 inches) and includes a Photo Diode (PD), 5 LEDs and Intergrated Circuit (IC), allowing it to measure heart rates, stress indices and oxygen saturation levels. 

The sensor consumes less power and measures data with higher accuracy, as compared to existing modules. It uses an embedded PCB technology that embeds IC into the PCBs for a thinner design, making way for slimmer phones and watches.

The internals are gold plated for maximizing luminance efficiency by minimizing the amount of LED light absorbed. This will increase the accuracy of biometric signals by about 30 percent, while battery consumption reduces by 20 percent compared to the existing modules, to accurately detect biometric signals. Improved accuracy means the unit will measure heart rate with just ±5 bpm during exercise, and ±2 bpm when in stable condition, which is same as dedicated heart rate monitors.

LG Innotek is yet to give out a time frame for availability. 

Via