Healthcare to benefit from Sprint's M2M efforts

Sprint's push into the machine-to-machine (M2M) space is paying off in the form of new solutions served up by 14 partners. The new offerings will target a range of devices and industries, including healthcare.

"M2M solutions wirelessly connect a rapidly proliferating variety of electronic devices to enable increased operational efficiencies for business, as well as innovative new consumer and commercial services. Those devices are as varied as digital billboards, medical equipment, cameras, video surveillance and security solutions, remote sensors, utility meters, appliances and routers," reports Mobile Enterprise.

While M2M connectivity ultimately promises a shift in thinking--and business models--from B2B or B2C to B2B2C, the short term upside for healthcare is already in evidence.

Among Sprint's partners turning out healthcare solutions is Pittsburgh-based BodyMedia, which is in the process of broadening its product portfolio. "The Sprint broadband network and location-based services will power a new line of embedded wireless BodyMedia FIT Armbands and future wearable body monitors, set to launch in 2012. BodyMedia devices track an individual’s calorie burn, activity levels and sleep to help consumers tailor their habits to lead healthier lives. The connected Armband will use Sprint M2M to wirelessly send health and fitness data to the users’ smartphones, where the mobile application can provide near real-time feedback and analysis," the article states.

Another Sprint partner working to build out its portfolio is IDEAL LIFE, located in Toronto. The company's products are designed to provide healthcare providers with vital stats.

The partnership with Sprint calls for both companies to develop, certify and jointly market a new version of the IDEAL LIFE hub. Mobile Enterprise adds: "IDEAL LIFE’s entire system will work wirelessly, using Sprint’s M2M platform and Nationwide Sprint Network to transmit health information to health care providers and caregivers to support ongoing health management."

Photo obtained from BodyMedia.