AirPods new patent: left and right earbuds can be interchanged with built-in biometric sensors for health tracking

According to foreign media reports, Apple was recently approved for a new patent, which was originally submitted last year. It mainly provides a possible solution: interchangeable "universal" AirPods can use built-in biometric sensors to perform health tracking and determine in which ear a specific earbud is placed. In simple terms, the earbuds can be used interchangeably in the user's left and right ears.

The full patent summary is as follows:

The present application relates to earbuds configured with one or more biometric sensors. At least one biometric sensor is configured to press against a portion of the tragus to perform a biometric measurement. In some implementations, the housing of the earbud can be symmetrical so that the earbud can be worn interchangeably in the left or right ear of a user. In such implementations, the earbud can include a sensor and a circuit.

The patent describes at least one sensor being biometric and "configured to be pressed against a portion of the tragus," so the AirPods could perform heart rate monitoring and take body temperature measurements, among other health-related metric tracking.

One of the key points covered in the patent is how to press the biometric sensor firmly against the skin so that it can work better, and in some designs outlined in the document, Apple wants to use foam to expand the bud into the ear canal.

In its quest for universal fit, Apple may decide that expanded foam is the best option, rather than hard plastic.

Of course, this is a patent and actual technology could be years away even at the prototype stage, but the patent suggests that in 2020 and beyond, Apple is interested in creating an ultimate earbud that fits anyone, including an array of biometric sensors and the ability to track health and fitness.

Apple plans to launch a new version of AirPods with noise cancellation and water resistance early next year, and will fully redesign the earphones in 2020, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

It's safe to say there's a new version of the AirPods coming soon, but those who want a more comfortable design may have to wait a few years for the next version.