Google experiments using smartphone sensors to detect heart and vision problems

Google disclosed its newest ambitions for using smartphones to monitor health on Thursday, saying it will investigate if collecting heart sounds and ocular photos may help individuals spot concerns from the comfort of their own homes.

According to Greg Corrado, head of health AI at Alphabet Inc (GOOGL.O), the firm is researching whether the smartphone's built-in microphone can detect heartbeats and murmurs when put over the chest. According to him, the readings might assist in the early diagnosis of heart valve abnormalities.

"It's not at the level of diagnosis but it is at the level of knowing whether there is an elevated risk," Corrado stated, noting that issues concerning accuracy persisted.

The eye research is aimed towards detecting disorders in images, such as those associated with diabetes. Google stated that it had revealed "early positive findings" using tabletop cameras in clinics and that it will now investigate if smartphone photographs would also work.

Corrado said his team saw "a future where people, with the help of their doctors, can better understand and make decisions about health conditions from their own home."

Google also intends to investigate if its artificial intelligence software can analyse ultrasound tests performed by less-experienced clinicians if they follow a specific pattern. Higher-skilled job shortages might be addressed by the technology, as well as the ability for delivering parents to be examined at home.

The efforts follow last year's statements about tracking heart and breathing rates using smartphone cameras, which are currently available on many devices via the Google Fit app.

While Google has long pushed to apply its technical capabilities to health care, it has been mum on whether the initiatives are yielding substantial income or utilisation.

Corrado described the deployment of capabilities as a "big milestone," adding that adoption will take time.

"When you think about breathing and heart rate, whatever level of adoption we see today only scratches the surface," he said.