You are watching a drama or movie on TV and before you know it, you fall asleep and when you wake up, the program is over. Have you ever had that experience? That somehow often happens when you wake up when the end roll is playing, which makes the disappointment even greater.

Virgin Media, a cable television operator in the U.K., has introduced KipstR, a bracelet that automatically records TV programs when viewers fall asleep. With this, you will no longer miss important scenes because you fell asleep.

KipstR, a bracelet that automatically records TV shows when viewers fall asleep
KipstR, a bracelet that automatically records TV shows when viewers fall asleep

The "KipstR" bracelet uses a pulse oximeter to measure the wearer's heart rate. When the heart rate drops, the system determines that the wearer has fallen asleep and begins recording the currently watched program. When the viewer wakes up, it also has the ability to play back the program from the scene where the viewer fell asleep.

Virgin Media is piloting the KipstR starting this Christmas. The reason for this is that one in five people fall asleep on the couch on Christmas Day.

Especially his father, who is so busy preparing the turkey that he's likely to fall asleep.
Especially his father, who is so busy preparing the turkey that he's likely to fall asleep.

Virgin Media also plans to use "KipstR" to study what aspects of programming raise viewers' heart rates, among other things.

I think "KipstR" is a great system, but it does have its risks. From the cable TV station's point of view, it is obvious that the viewers are sleeping. If it is abused, it might be a little scary.

That said, if a similar service were to be launched in Japan, I think I would adopt it. Because falling asleep is a very pleasant experience.