Hyfe Enters Partnership Deal With Merck for Cough Tracking Tech

New York, N.Y.-based Hyfe has entered into a partnership with Merck, giving Merck access to its artificial intelligence (AI)-powered cough tracking technology.

The AI application monitors the number of times a person coughs and the sound of the cough through a smart device such as a mobile phone.

The app, which runs on Android devices, includes AI models that enable it to determine cough classification, cough frequency and pattern recognition. The data collected over time can reveal patterns and potential triggers like seasonal allergies that may be causing the cough that would otherwise go unnoticed, the company said.

“Cough frequency and sound should be monitored and measured with the same accuracy as blood pressure, temperature, heartbeat and other biomarkers that are essential for assessing health and medical conditions,” the company said.

Merck plans on integrating Hyfe’s technology into its consumer educational efforts. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.