Sci. Transl. Med. 11, eaau8914 (2019)

A system that converts a smartphone into a contactless sensor can provide an early warning to friends or emergency medical services of an individual experiencing an accidental opioid overdose.

Death from accidental opioid overdose can be rapidly prevented if detected early and naxolone is administered. High doses of opioids can cause cessation of breathing (apnea) and respiratory failure.

Researchers from the University of Washington developed an algorithm that could convert the smartphone’s native speaker and microphone into a short-range active sonar that is able to detect the early overdose signs. They show it is effective in both simulated overdose situations and a supervised injection facility, indicating that is has the potential to save lives.