Aurmada, a Toronto-based start-up, is developing AI-enhanced clothing designed to monitor a wearer's gait and proximity to others [1, 2].
This technology represents a shift in the wearable-technology industry by integrating artificial intelligence directly into fabric. By moving sensors from wrist-worn devices to clothing, the company aims to provide more comprehensive health-related metrics and situational awareness for the user [1, 2].
The clothing is engineered to track how a person walks and the distance between the wearer and people standing nearby [1, 2]. This capability is intended to help users monitor health indicators through their movement patterns, a process known as gait analysis, while providing a digital layer of awareness regarding their physical environment [1, 2].
According to the company, these advancements are intended to help humans adapt to an increasingly robotic world [1, 2]. By weaving AI into the garments, Aurmada seeks to create a seamless interface between the human body and digital monitoring systems [1, 2].
The start-up is positioning itself within the emerging wearable-technology sector in Canada [1, 2]. While traditional wearables often rely on separate hardware, this approach integrates the technology into the textile itself, reducing the friction of monitoring health and environmental data throughout the day [1, 2].
“Aurmada is designing AI‑enhanced clothing that can monitor the wearer’s gait.”
The transition from accessory-based wearables to AI-integrated textiles suggests a move toward 'invisible' technology. If successful, this allows for continuous health monitoring without the need for active device management, though it raises future questions regarding data privacy and the constant surveillance of physical proximity in public spaces.
