Life Sciences case study: EarSwitch ltd.

Revolutionising global medical monitoring

EarSwitch’s patented technology, "EarMetrics," is poised to set a new global standard in medical monitoring. By developing highly accurate, real-world, synchronous, multi-parameter, and racially inclusive data, EarMetrics aims to revolutionise how medical insights are gathered and applied worldwide. The technology utilises miniature sensors that monitor the ear canal, making it adaptable for integration into medical devices, audio earphones, and hearing aids. With a focus on equitable, high-accuracy data from standard medical devices and lifestyle monitoring, EarMetrics-Cloud aspires to be the most trusted source for AI-driven health insights globally.

EarSwitch stands out in the medical technology landscape due to its innovative use of the inner ear canal for monitoring vital signs. It has several key advantages:

Ear canal-based monitoring: By targeting the ear canal, EarMetrics offers the opportunity for a more accurate and consistent measurement of vital signs compared to traditional methods.
Racial inclusivity: The technology is designed to target a site that is to be equally effective for individuals of all skin colours, aiming to address a significant limitation of existing monitoring devices.
Miniaturisation: EarMetrics sensors can be easily integrated into medical devices, audio earphones, and hearing aids, providing a convenient and unobtrusive way to collect health data.

Key achievements

Since receiving its first UKRI grant for EarMetrics in 2022, it has seen rapid technological advancement, thanks to the efforts of its newly established lab team in April 2023. This team has made significant strides, including:

Multi-parameter monitoring

EarMetrics has successfully demonstrated the ability to measure various health parameters, including pulse rate, pulse rate variability, breathing rate, blood oxygen levels, and digital blood pressure biomarkers.

Racial equity

EarMetrics is designed to provide accurate readings regardless of skin colour, addressing a critical limitation of traditional monitoring devices.

Regulatory approval pathway

The company has gained recognition by being selected for the pilot “Innovative Device Access Programme” (IDAP). This prestigious program, a collaboration between the MHRA, DHSC, and NICE, aims to fast-track the regulatory approval process for life-saving technologies. EarSwitch is one of only eight technologies chosen for this program, highlighting the potential impact of EarMetrics on NHS patients and beyond.

Image credit: Earswitch

Future plans

EarSwitch's overarching goal is to democratise healthcare by providing accessible, accurate, and inclusive medical monitoring solutions. Specifically, the company aims to enable:

Global healthcare equity: Ensure that everyone, regardless of location or skin colour, has access to the same standard of medical care.
Personalised health data: Offer individuals a secure platform to store and manage their health data, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health.
Early disease detection: Utilise EarMetrics data to enable early detection and management of chronic conditions.

Support in the region

EarSwitch’s technology base in North Bristol provides strategic advantages, including proximity to a network of tech companies and top universities in Bristol and Bath. The area’s excellent transport links and high quality of life have also made it easier for them to attract and retain top talent, further fuelling the company’s innovation and growth.

EarSwitch’s journey has been significantly supported by Invest Bristol & Bath (IBB) and Health Innovation West of England (HIWE). Through IBB's connections with FutureSpace and UWE's Launch Space accelerator, the company gained access to business education, funding opportunities, and collaborations with other healthcare technology organisations. HIWE, formerly known as WE AHSN, also played a pivotal role in helping EarSwitch secure funding, university partnerships, investment, and acceptance into the IDAP scheme.