Smart Clothing Measures Blood Pressure Without Batteries – A Smartwatch Alternative

The landscape of wearable health technology may soon shift from the wrist to the wardrobe. Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed a battery-free smart shirt capable of monitoring blood pressure in real-time, offering a potential alternative to traditional smartwatches.

Wireless Power via Metamaterials

Unlike conventional wearables that rely on bulky internal batteries, this smart garment operates by harvesting energy from a nearby smartphone. According to a paper published in the scientific journal Nature Electronics and reported by Tech Xplore, the system utilizes a specially engineered fabric known as a metamaterial.

This advanced textile is designed to wirelessly transfer power from a mobile device to ultra-thin sensors that adhere directly to the user’s skin. In this ecosystem, the smartphone functions as both the primary power source and the central data hub for the garment.

Engineering Stability and Accuracy

To maintain a consistent connection and avoid signal degradation, the researchers implemented a dual-channel system. By separating the pathways for power delivery and data communication into different frequency channels, the team was able to eliminate interference and ensure signal stability.

The practical utility of the device has already been put to the test. Reports indicate that the smart shirt is capable of providing accurate blood pressure readings even although the wearer is engaged in physical exercise.

This innovation signals a broader trend toward “invisible” health monitoring, where medical-grade data collection is integrated seamlessly into everyday clothing. By removing the demand for dedicated batteries and external hardware, the NUS development highlights a significant step toward continuous, non-invasive health tracking that does not disrupt the user’s daily routine.