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Sony files patent for a “SmartWig”

Posted at 8:59 AM, Nov 28, 2013
and last updated 2013-11-28 08:59:44-05

By Alanna Petroff

LONDON (CNNMoney) — Sony is taking wearable technology to a whole new level.

The Japanese electronics company has filed a U.S. patent for a “SmartWig,” which is will use sensors to detect everything from blood pressure to brain waves.

The wearable wig could also be used in a number of practical ways, such as helping blind people navigate without any extra assistance, said Sony in its filing.

It could also come in handy for the gaming industry, especially for virtual reality fans, and could be hooked up to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and radio transceivers, according to the patent application.

Sony was unavailable for immediate comment.

Wearable technology is starting to become a hot trend, with both Google and Samsung jostling for market share.

Google launched Google Glass in May and Samsung unveiled its Galaxy Gear smartwatch in September.

Both products have generated a lot of buzz but skeptics have been pretty vocal, questioning the cost and benefits of the devices.

Meanwhile, Sony has been trying for years to keep pace with rapid changes in the consumer electronics business, struggling to match the innovative gadgets produced by rivals such as Apple.

Sony just released the new Playstation 4 this month, its first new gaming system in seven years. The system sells for $399 and is competing against Microsoft’s rival Xbox One for sales in the upcoming the holiday season.

The-CNN-Wire
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