2026 MeTRIC Symposium Mobile Device Gallery: Wearables in Research

Summary

The 2026 MeTRIC Symposium at the University of Michigan, hosted by the Eisenberg Family Depression Center's Mobile Technologies Core, featured a showcase of wearable, nearable, and connected devices used in research. This gallery offered researchers and students an interactive opportunity to explore a range of mobile technologies, review their features, and discover how these innovative tools can enhance data collection and research across disciplines.

Body

Author: Gabriel Mongefranco DOI: 10.7302/28333

Summary

The 2026 MeTRIC Symposium at the University of Michigan, hosted by the Eisenberg Family Depression Center's Mobile Technologies Core, featured a showcase of wearable, nearable, and connected devices used in research. This gallery offered researchers and students an interactive opportunity to explore a range of mobile technologies, review their features, and discover how these innovative tools can enhance data collection and research across disciplines.
 

Wearables

Note: The Eisenberg Family Depression Center does not recommend any specific brands or devices.

 

Glucose Monitors and Meters

 

Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 / 3 Plus (CGM)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: freestyle.abbott

Description: Compact, disposable disc-shaped CGM sensor providing real-time glucose data every minute. Worn on the upper arm, the Freestyle Libre 3 lasts 14 days while Libre 3 Plus lasts 15 days. It transmits data via Bluetooth to smart phones, insulin pumps (Plus model only), or compatible receivers.

Features:

  • 14 or 15-day sensor wear with easy auto-applicator
  • Continuous glucose readings every minute, providing highly detailed data for analysis
  • Factory-calibrated, without the option for finger stick calibration
  • Can use an optional receiver (only 1 connection at a time) that has a built-in blood glucose meter

 

Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Reader (CGM Receiver / BGM)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: freestyle.abbott

Description: Optional receiver for Freestyle Libre 3 and 3 Plus CGMs (when not using an insulin pump). It provides a built-in glucometer for use with Precision Neo strips.

Features:

  • Can be used in place of the Freestyle Libre app (not concurrently), or as a blood glucose meter (BGM)
  • Data is uploaded via a Micro USB port and a PC or Mac
  • Thanks to its built-in BGM (Precision Neo strips), it gives participants the option to automatically log finger stick values and display them along the glucose graph and event log

 

Dexcom G6 (CGM)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: dexcom.com

Description: Disposable CGM and re-usable transmitter providing real-time glucose data every 5 minutes. Worn on the abdomen or upper buttocks, the G6 sensor lasts up to 10 days per application and transmits data via a reusable Bluetooth transmitter to smart phones, insulin pumps or compatible receivers.

Features:

  • 10-day sensor wear with easy auto-applicator
  • Continuous glucose readings every 5 minutes
  • Compatible with select insulin pumps and an optional receiver
  • Factory-calibrated, but finger stick calibration is possible

 

Dexcom G7 / G7 15 Day (CGM)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: dexcom.com

Description: Disposable CGM providing real-time glucose data every 5 minutes. Worn on the upper arm, the G7 sensor lasts up to 10 days while G7 15 Day lasts up to 15 days (plus a 12 hour grace period). It transmits data via Bluetooth to smart phones, insulin pumps, compatible receivers, or Apple Watch.

Features:

  • 10 or 15-day sensor wear with easy auto-applicator
  • Continuous glucose readings every 5 minutes
  • Compatible with select insulin pumps
  • Factory-calibrated, but finger stick calibration is possible
  • Can transmit data concurrently to 2 devices (pump, receiver, smart phone, smart watch)

 

Dexcom G7 Receiver (CGM Receiver)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: dexcom.com

Description: Optional receiver for G7 and G7 15 Day CGMs. It features a slim form factor with high water resistance.

Features:

  • Can display and store 90 days of data from G7 CGMs, which can serve as a backup against data loss. Data is uploaded via a Micro USB port and a PC or Mac
  • Gives participants an option to use the device without a smart phone, making it ideal for sports
  • High degree of water resistance

 

Roche Accu-Chek Guide / Guide Me (BGM)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: accu-chek.com

Description: Bluetooth-enabled blood glucose meter (glucometer). The "Link" version is compatible with certain Medtronic MiniMed insulin pumps.

Features:

  • Fast, accurate blood glucose results with a small sample size
  • Spill-resistant test strip container for easy handling
  • Data upload via Bluetooth and the mySugr app, via Micro USB, or to MiniMed pumps (Link version only)
  • Strip port light and back light for testing in low light

 

Senseonics Eversense 365 (CGM)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: eversensecgm.com

Description: Long-term, implantable CGM that can collect glucose data for one full year. It utilizes a subcutaneous sensor, implanted in the upper arm, and a removable, rechargeable transmitter patch that is worn on the skin over the sensor to transmit data via Bluetooth.

Features:

  • 1-year continuous monitoring with upper arm implantable sensor and detachable transmitter
  • Glucose readings recorded every 5 minutes; cannot record while transmitter is off for charging, but it can charge in 15 mintues or less
  • Compatible with specific insulin pumps (smart phone required)
  • Specifically engineered to avoid compression lows, supporting accuracy in diverse study conditions
  • Requires a series of calibrations in the first two weeks, followed by one finger stick calibration weekly

 

 

Insulin Pumps

 

Sequel Med Tech Twiist (Insulin Pump)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: twiist.com

Description: Twiist is a next-generation insulin pump that uses the Tidepool Loop algorithm for automated insulin delivery (AID). Highly configurable settings with multiple safety guardrails, yet with a user-friendly interface.

Features:

  • Compact, user-friendly pump design
  • Alternate controller enabled (ACE) featuring the Tidepool Loop algorithm, with ongoing work for compatibility with other algorithms
  • Compatible with Abbott Freestyle Libre and Senseonics Eversense CGMs
  • Gives participants the option to change their original carb entries after a meal, plus emoji-based entries
  • Its iiSure technology measures insulin delivery precisely and detects clogs early using acoustic waves
  • Data upload via Bluetooth and mobile app, with the option for direct connection to Apple Watch

 

Tandem t:slim X2 (Insulin Pump)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: tandemdiabetes.com / user guide

Description: Hybrid closed-loop insulin pump. Designed for integration with compatible CGMs, it can work as an automated insulin delivery (AID) system, or in manual mode. Features control software with proprietary algorithms for glucose correction based on CGM data, with safety guardrails.

Features:

  • Color touchscreen interface for customizable settings
  • Control-IQ technology for automated insulin delivery
  • Compatible with Abbott Freestyle Libre and Dexcom CGMs
  • Data upload every hour via Bluetooth and mobile app, or manually via USB
  • Waterproof, discreet cartridge design

 

 

Nearables

 

Garmin Index S2 (Smart Scale)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: garmin.com

Description: Multi-user, Wi-Fi enabled smart scale with weight and body composition tracking.

Features:

  • Measures body weight, BMI, body fat, water, skeletal muscle mass, and bone mass
  • Data upload to Garmin Connect via Wi-Fi after each weigh-in (no smartphone required)
  • Data can be exported from the web portal, through Apple Health / Google Health Connect, or through study management platforms

 

Omron Evolv Upper Arm B7000 (Blood Pressure Monitor)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: omronhealthcare.com

Description: Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure monitor with integrated cuff and heart rate monitor.

Features:

  • Captures blood pressure and heart rate with a single touch; detects irregular heartbeat and hypertension
  • Connects to smart phone via Bluetooth and the OMRON Connect app. Data can be exported manually, through a provider portal, via Apple Health / Google Health Connect, or through study management platforms
  • Compact, integrated design - physical monitor, screen and cuff are a single piece
  • Cuff is spring-loaded yet flexible, making placement easier and more accurate even with limited dexterity

 

Withings Body Comp (Smart Scale)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: withings.com

Description: Multi-user, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled smart scale with weight, body composition, electrodermal activity (EDA), and heart rate.

Features:

  • Measures body weight, BMI, body fat, water, muscle mass, bone mass, visceral fat, heart rate, and electrodermal activity
  • Data upload to Withings app, Withings+ service, or clinic portal via Wi-Fi (no smartphone required) or Bluetooth (via Withings app)
  • Data can be exported manually or through a provider portal, Apple Health / Google Health Connect, or study management platforms
  • The "Body Scan" version also features a 6-lead ECG with atrial fibrillation detection

 

Withings Sleep (Smart Sleep Mat)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: withings.com

Description: Under-mattress, Wi-Fi enabled sleep sensor with snore detection, sleep analysis, and heart rate monitoring.

Features:

  • Placed under any mattress, it can track sleep, breath and heart metrics without user interaction and without wearing anything on the body
  • Measures heart rate, breathing rate, and movement (via pneumatic sensor); provides continuous heart rate tracking, snoring detection, and sleep stages.
  • Data upload to Withings app, Withings+ service, or clinic portal via Wi-Fi (no smartphone required)
  • Data can be exported manually or through a provider portal, Apple Health / Google Health Connect, or study management platforms

 

 

Smart Rings

 

Oura Ring 4

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: organizations.ouraring.com

Description: Bluetooth enabled smart ring with multiple biometric measures, featuring red/green/infrared LEDs, temperature sensor, and 3D accelerometer.


 

 

Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers

 

Apple Watch 9 (Smartwatch)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: apple.com

Description: Advanced smartwatch offering high-resolution biometric data through PPG, ECG, tri-axis accelerometer, GPS, and other sensors. Data capture is robust for ambulatory monitoring, but the device requires an iPhone for setup and data integration, limiting use in studies involving Android users.


 

Garmin Vivoactive 4 / 5 (Smartwatch)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: garmin.com

Description: Multi-sensor smartwatch suitable for capturing diverse biometric signals including heart rate via PPG, pulse oximetry (SpO2), GPS for location/activity tracking, and skin temperature variation. Garmin’s platform offers strong support for long-term raw data access via developer APIs, which is valuable for researchers requiring granular dataset extraction.


 

Google Fitbit Charge 6 (Fitness Tracker)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: store.google.com

Description: Lightweight wrist-worn tracker focused on continuous health assessment, incorporating PPG (heart rate), ECG, skin temperature, and electrodermal activity sensors. The Charge 6 supports sleep and stress monitoring, and connects to both Android and iOS for broad study participant inclusion and cloud-based data downloads.


 

Google Fitbit Sense 2 (Smartwatch)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: store.google.com

Description: Sensor-rich smartwatch optimized for detailed health and wellness research, featuring PPG, ECG, skin temperature, and EDA sensors. Sense 2 enables real-time stress detection as well as sleep and heart rhythm monitoring, with compatibility for both Android and iOS platforms.

 

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 (Smartwatch)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: samsung.com

Description: Full-featured smartwatch integrating PPG, ECG, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), GPS, accelerometer, and more, making it well-suited for multi-modal data collection in diverse study populations. Native compatibility with Android devices, robust developer options, and support for continuous tracking set it apart for longitudinal research.


 

Withings ScanWatch 2 (Smartwatch)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: withings.com

Description: Hybrid analog-digital watch featuring ECG, PPG, SPO2, and temperature sensors, with added sleep apnea detection. ScanWatch 2 is standout for its long battery life (up to one month), medical-grade sensors, and secure cloud data export options, supporting high-frequency data collection over extended study periods.


 

 

Other Wearables

 

Blue Spark Technologies TempTraq TT100 24 Hour

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: temptraq.healthcare / clinical brochure

Description: Single-use, wearable temperature patch that is worn on the axilla, providing continuous temperature monitoring for up to 24 hours (there is a 72-hour model available). TempTraq is suitable for studies requiring non-invasive, wireless fever detection in ambulatory or inpatient settings, with real-time data transmission via Bluetooth to a connected device.


 

Hexoskin Smart Kit - Men's / Women's (Smart Garment)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)
Image credit: pregnancycoach.com

Description: The Hexoskin Smart Kit is a sensor-integrated garment designed for continuous, ambulatory physiological monitoring in research. Each shirt contains textile-embedded sensors that capture ECG, respiratory rate, tidal volume, heart rate, step count, and activity levels. Data is transmitted wirelessly to a mobile device or data hub for real-time tracking and subsequent detailed analysis. Hexoskin offers direct measurement of respiratory parameters in addition to cardiopulmonary and activity metrics, enabling a wide range of study designs including sleep, exercise, and chronic disease monitoring.


 

Polar H10 (HRM Chest Strap)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: polar.com

Description: Chest strap heart rate monitor delivering ECG data, ideal for studies needing high-fidelity, real-time cardiac monitoring during activity. It is water-proof, making it ideal for recording during intense activities and swimming. The H10 supports Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, compatible with multiple research platforms and data export formats.


 

Smart Human Dynamics Pregnancy Coach (Body Position Pod)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: pregnancycoach.com

Description: Wearable sensor pod designed for continuous monitoring of body position, movement, and sleep during pregnancy. Data is transmitted wirelessly, allowing researchers to objectively quantify rest, posture, and activity patterns in observational or intervention trials. Manufacturer can provide very detailed, nearly raw data to researchers upon request.


 

 

Extended Reality Headsets (XR, VR, AR, MR)

 

Apple Vision Pro (Augmented and Virtual Reality Headset)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: apple.com

Description: Apple Vision Pro is a spatial computing headset combining augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) capabilities, equipped with advanced eye-tracking, hand-tracking, voice input, and high-resolution sensors. The device supports multimodal research protocols, including studies on immersive environments, behavioral responses, and human-computer interaction. Its integration with the Apple ecosystem allows secure data exchange and custom application development for research purposes.


 

Varjo Technologies XR-4 (Mixed Reality Headset)

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)Image credit: varjo.com

Description: Dual 4K mixed reality headset with eye tracking, designed for training and research.

Features:

  • Dual 4K (one per eye) mini-LED screens
  • Eye tracking, optical hand tracking, speakers, noise cancelling microphones, and optional controllers
  • Can operate in classified settings and secure facilities by turning off radio communication and working offline

 

 

Device Evaluation, Testing and Selection

When selecting a device to use in a research study, investigators should consider important factors beyond cost, including:

  • How will the device's metrics aid the study objectives?
  • What does the data look like? Do the device's sensors record with the granularity and time scale required for data analysis?
  • How easy is it to transfer the data from the device to the researcher on an ongoing basis? Does the device integrate with remote study management platforms?
  • How accessible, ergonomic, comfortable, user-friendly and visually appealing is the device for the target populations?
  • How long does the battery last, or how long is the sensor life?

We also recommend trying out devices hands-on before selection, and looking at sample data. This allows researchers to experience the device from the participant's perspective and to see if the data meets the needs of the study objectives. Moreover, study coordinators and project managers should also become familiar with devices so they can anticipate potential problems or challenges that may affect compliance.

The Mobile Technologies Core has many resources available to aid in device selection:

If in doubt, contact the Mobile Technologies Core to request a free consultation!

 

 

Resources

 

 

Acknowledgements

The creation of this mobile device gallery was made possible through the support and contributions of many. We gratefully acknowledge the individuals and departments who facilitated this collection - whether by lending devices, gifting them, or enabling purchases through the Eisenberg Family Depression Center.

 

 

About the Author

Gabriel Mongefranco is a Mobile Data Architect at the University of Michigan's Eisenberg Family Depression Center. Gabriel has over a decade of experience with automation, data analytics, database architecture, dashboard design, software development, and technical writing. He supports U-M researchers with data cleaning, data pipelines, automation and enterprise architecture for wearables and other mobile technologies.

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Details

Details

Article ID: 14738
Created
Fri 1/23/26 9:25 AM
Modified
Mon 1/26/26 3:47 PM
Author(s)
Gabriel Mongefranco
DOI
Link to Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

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