One light source, two functions: IR emitters enable vital sign monitoring and proximity detection in earbuds
Premstaetten, Austria, and Munich, Germany (October 14, 2025) — Wearables are evolving into everyday health companions. To reliably capture vital signs such as blood oxygen saturation (SpO₂) with in-ear or other compact wearable devices, optical components are required that take minimal space while delivering maximum efficiency. The new infrared (IR) emitters from ams OSRAM precisely meet these requirements while also supporting proximity detection features. Thanks to latest-generation IR:6 chip technology, they reduce power consumption and extend battery life.
Infrared light sources operating at wavelengths of 850 nm and 940 nm (in combination with a 660 nm red wavelength) form the basis for measuring blood oxygen saturation. This measurement serves as a safety and control parameter to indicate adequate oxygenation: whether during endurance sports or when having to adapt to high altitudes, such as in mountaineering or long-haul flights, as well as in a medical context. In addition to SpO₂ monitoring, the new emitters also support proximity sensing. This enables earbuds to trigger features such as auto-pausing when removed, saving energy and enhancing user comfort. Manufacturers benefit too, with fewer components and greater design freedom.
The two new products in the FIREFLY™ E1608 family cover the infrared wavelengths of 850 nm and 940 nm, matching the different peak sensitivities of relevant photodiodes.
The IR:6 chip technology reduces forward voltage by up to 48% compared to previous IR emitter chip generations, extending battery life and enabling energy-efficient devices. At the same time, the proven 1608 package remains unchanged, simplifying integration into existing designs.
ams OSRAM owns the largest LED patent portfolio in Europe. Furthermore, ams OSRAM has built up extensive expertise in the application fields of Vital Sign Monitoring and Proximity Sensing as underlined by over 1200 patent rights and other IP rights in these innovative technologies.
Further information on the new FIREFLY™ E1608 CN DELSS1.27 IR emitter is available here, and on the CN DELSS2.27 here. An overview of the full portfolio for vital sign monitoring can be found on the application page.
At Medica 2025 in Düsseldorf, ams OSRAM will showcase solutions in the field of vital sign monitoring, among others.
About ams OSRAM
The ams OSRAM Group (SIX: AMS) is a global leader in innovative light and sensor solutions.
With more than 110 years of industry experience, we combine engineering excellence and global manufacturing with a passion for cutting-edge innovation. Our commitment to pushing the boundaries of illumination, visualization, and sensing enable transformative advancements in the automotive, industrial, medical, and consumer industries.
“Sense the power of light” – our success is based on the deep understanding of the potential of light and our distinct portfolio of both emitter and sensor technologies. Approximately 19,700 employees worldwide focus on pioneering innovations alongside the societal megatrends of digitalization, smart living and sustainability. This is reflected in over 13,000 patents granted and applied.
Headquartered in Premstaetten/Graz (Austria) with co-headquarters in Munich (Germany), the group achieved EUR 3.4 billion revenues in 2024 and is listed as ams-OSRAM AG on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ISIN: AT0000A3EPA4).
Find out more about us on https://ams-osram.com
ams and OSRAM are registered trademarks of ams OSRAM Group. In addition, many of our products and services are registered or filed trademarks of ams OSRAM Group. All other company or product names mentioned herein may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
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