A new smartphone app may be able to give bipolar patients and their health care providers an early warning before mood swings, according to new research from the University of Michigan.
The technology could help people with other conditions as well.
The app, which monitors the subtle qualities of the user’s voice during daily phone conversations, shows promise for detecting early signs of mood changes. It requires more testing before it becomes publicly available, but early results show strong potential to monitor patients’ moods while also protecting privacy.
Currently, study participants are using the app on study-provided smartphones. As more patients volunteer, the team will continue to test and improve the technology.