Researchershave createdwhat could be the first battery that is both flexible and washable.

It’s part of a growing number of innovations in gadgets you wear, including smartwatches and glasses.

“This is a critical addition if they are to withstand the demands of everyday use.”

Someone dressed in workout clothes looking at a wearable device on their wrist.

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The battery developed by Nguyen and his colleagues offers several engineering advances.

The internal layers are hard materials encased in a rigid exterior in standard batteries.

The battery has several ultra-thin layers of plastic to create an airtight, waterproof seal.

Someone interacting with a wearable device on their wrist.

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Future Wearables

Advances in batteries and materials could drive a revolution in wearables.

“They will identify sickness before it becomes serious.”

Future wearables could also have defense applications.

A new, wearable devicenicknamed the “Superman” projectcanmonitor military personnelas they engage in dangerous environments.

Augmented reality glasses have the potential to be the most exciting wearable technology, Doerksen said.

Unlike phones and watches, the screens on AR glasses will mix the real world and the virtual world.

“However, the privacy risks remain an important part of the calculus for adoption.”