Imagine a future where healthcare is seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, with devices so small and efficient, they're barely noticeable. That's the vision ams OSRAM is bringing to life at MEDICA 2025, the world's leading medical trade fair. But here's where it gets exciting: they're not just showcasing any technology; they're unveiling a revolutionary approach to vital sign monitoring that's compact, energy-efficient, and incredibly versatile.
In a live demonstration, ams OSRAM will reveal a system that captures multiple vital parameters, including heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, body temperature, and body composition, all within a sleek, wearable design. This isn't just a concept; it's a practical solution built on a modular foundation of temperature sensors, LEDs, photodiodes, and analog front-end ICs, designed to minimize size and maximize efficiency. And this is the part most people miss: the real innovation lies in the integration of these components, enabling wearables that are not only smaller but also more functional.
One of the standout additions to their portfolio is the CHIPLED SFH 270xH photodiodes, featuring an enhanced surface finish. This might sound like a minor detail, but it's a game-changer. By reducing the visibility of micro-scratches that occur during assembly, these components not only look better but also cut down on production rejects, saving both costs and resources. Controversially, some might argue that aesthetics shouldn't be a priority in medical technology, but ams OSRAM believes that every detail matters when it comes to user acceptance and device longevity.
Another highlight is the expansion of the FIREFLY E1608 family with two new IR emitters. These tiny powerhouses combine multiple functions into a single component, enabling both blood oxygen saturation measurement (when paired with a red LED) and proximity detection. This makes them ideal for in-ear devices, a growing trend in wearable health tech. But here's a thought-provoking question: as we pack more functionality into smaller devices, are we risking oversaturation, or is this the natural evolution of healthcare technology?
In the realm of diabetes care, ams OSRAM introduces the AS6223 temperature sensor, a device so small it’s barely bigger than a poppy seed, yet it maintains an accuracy of ±0.09 °C. This sensor is designed for compact, battery-powered devices that fit seamlessly into everyday life, providing valuable context for glucose readings. Jouni Riihimaeki, Product Manager at ams OSRAM, puts it perfectly: “When components shrink below one square millimetre, wearables become lighter, less obtrusive, and more practical. The new temperature sensor combines this miniaturisation with low power consumption — bringing precision where it matters most: into everyday life.”
Beyond vital sign monitoring, ams OSRAM’s broader medical and healthcare portfolio is equally impressive. From cyan laser diodes for DNA sequencing to CT sensor modules, medical lighting, and UV-C LEDs for disinfection, their solutions cover the entire medical and health value chain. But here's where it gets controversial: with such a wide range of applications, are we moving towards a future where healthcare is dominated by technology, or are these innovations simply tools that empower better care?
If you're as intrigued as we are, be sure to visit ams OSRAM at MEDICA 2025 in Hall 12 / C31 (Wearable Technologies Pavilion). And don't forget to share your thoughts: Do you think the miniaturization of medical technology is a step forward, or are there potential downsides we should be discussing? Let’s start the conversation in the comments!
