Apple has developed ResearchKit, a software
framework designed for medical and health re-
search, helping doctors and scientists gather
data more frequently and more accurately
from participants using iPhone apps. Re-
searchKit allows researchers design apps that
make use of integrated sensors in the iPhones
along with data from other wearable devices to
collect instant medical data.
Massachusetts General Hospital, for instance,
developed the GlucoSuccess app to under-
stand how various aspects of a person’s life—
diet, physical activity and medications—affect
blood glucose levels. The app can also help
participants identify how their food choices
and activity relate to their best glucose levels,
enabling them to clearly see correlations and
take more active roles in their own well-being.
Apple’s ResearchKit is a new framework of
apps that use sensors in the iPhone and data
gathering tools about health and diseases
from participants in the initiative.
Google, the giant Internet and search en-
gine service provider has launched a new
tool allowing users to compare car insur-
ance quotes just like comparing flight and
hotel deals.
CNET, a tech review website, rote that
Google may be experimenting with out-
there projects like driverless cars and smart
contact lenses, but it hasn’t forgotten about
the prosaic. Case in point: the tech giant has
launched a new tool that helps people com-
pare automobile insurance quotes.
The service, called Google Compare for
Auto Insurance, lets people look at quotes
side by side from up to 14 different insur-
ance providers.
ResearchKit platform
for medical research from Apple
Google launches
compare auto insurance tool
Microsoft launches
foldable keyboard for mobile devices
Microsoft has unveiled the new
foldable keyboard. The new key-
board will find particular interest
in those who write long texts us-
ing their mobile devices and want
to use an appropriate keyboard.
The keyboard can be connected
to a smartphone or tablet via
Bluetooth. The keyboard is ultra-
thin and is only 5 millimeter in
thickness. Users will be able to
pair the keyboard with two de-
vices, allowing them to quickly
switch from typing on one gadget
to another with the tap of a key.
Users must note though that this
keyboard is designed to work
only with devices that run on iOS
7, Android 4.3 or Windows 8.
It comes with a battery that lasts
for up to 3 months between
charges, and is spill-resistant
with a fabric exterior. It costs 100
euro (US$ 110). It is yet to be an-
nounced when the keyboard will
be released for sale.
15
April
2015
