‘World’s smallest’ breathalyser created

CoAsia Microelectronics Corp has launched a crowdfunding campaign for the “world’s smallest and lightest” breathalyser, called WearSmith.

The ‘world’s smallest and lightest’ breathalyser can detect alcohol levels in just five seconds

WearSmith is designed to be a personal accessory and can measure alcohol concentration in a short time by simply squeezing and blowing into it for five seconds.

The indiegogo campaign launched mid-August and aims to raise US$35,000 to fund its first round of shipping for September.

Weighing just 19g (0.7 oz), the product can be easily worn as a necklace or clipped on to a keychain. The creators aimed to make it “convenient for anyone’s day-to-day life”.

The small square device uses an electrochemical fuel sensor, the same technology as professional breathalysers, with the battery lasting for up to 1000 tests and can be idle for three months.

The wearer’s BAC measurement is read directly on the OLED display, or even through a smartphone by a secure Bluetooth connection using an app.

CoAsia developed the companion app for iOS and Android with extra features and options. It analyses how long it will take the user to recover and counts down until the wearer is sober enough to drive.

It also advises when the user’s BAC is too high to call a friend or cab for a lift, just in case.

Earlier this month, researchers at University of California designed a “temporary tattoo” with an electronic sensor that allows drinkers to measure their alcohol levels.