Published:  2024

Validation Study of the Empatica EmbracePlus Wristband for Measuring

Authors:  Yin Qu

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Wearable technology for EDA monitoring has gained significant attention, yet validation studies remain inconclusive. This preliminary study assessed the EmbracePlus wristband’s validity using a VR protocol and explored the effects of dynamic factors and temperature among 21 participants aged 18–32 with a BIOPAC system as the reference. Our findings challenged previous assumptions regarding the detection capabilities of wrist-worn EDA devices for significant stressors. While the EmbracePlus wristband demonstrated limitations in capturing EDA signals, parameters, and event-related effects compared to the reference device, it provided valuable insights into the sensitivity of wrist EDA to different stressors. Palm EDA exhibited greater responsiveness to both the VR stressor and dynamic factors, suggesting a synergistic effect. Wrist EDA, however, appeared less sensitive to both, highlighting the need for further research to understand the impact of stressor type on wrist EDA. Future research could focus on validating wearable devices across diverse stressors, incorporating advanced thermoregulatory indicators, and conducting long-term studies in real-world settings to optimize wearable technology for stress monitoring.