Allert

What it does

Allert is a smartwatch-based allergy alert system that communicates critical health info. in emergencies. Designed for India, it bridges the gap in medical ID usage by offering a discreet, tech-driven alternative that speaks when the user cannot.

Your inspiration

The idea began with a close family member who is allergic to certain medicines and was asked to carry a paper prescription listing them. While manageable during hospital visits, it felt unreliable in daily life—prone to wear, tear, or being forgotten. I began to wonder: what if she were unconscious in an accident? Who would communicate her condition? Research showed that while medical alert IDs exist globally, stigma and unawareness hinder their use. That led me to explore a discreet, tech-driven wearable that could silently speak for her when she couldn’t.

How it works

Allert is a smartwatch-based system that detects abnormal biometric changes—such as during an allergic reaction or accident—using the device’s existing sensors. It prompts the wearer to confirm if they’re okay. If there's no response or they press “No,” it triggers visual and audio alerts to inform people nearby: “Please Help! Allergic patient.” Meanwhile an automated message is sent to emergency contacts. It also guides bystanders or healthcare staff on urgent steps like using an EpiPen during severe reactions such as anaphylaxis. A proactive feature reminds users silently when they enter allergy-prone areas, like hospitals or restaurants. A “Hospital Mode” stores vital allergy info to notify staff during hospital admission, ensuring safety even if the user is unconscious or alone. Future versions plan to include environmental sensors for airborne allergens.

Design process

The process began with identifying a critical gap in allergy communication in India. Initial research explored existing global solutions like medical alert IDs, but they are rarely used due to stigma and lack of awareness. I ideated multiple alternatives and shortlisted three solutions. The smartwatch-based system was selected as the primary concept due to its discreet, tech-forward nature. A secondary solution—a low-cost silicone wristband—was also developed to address socio-economic diversity in India. I built a functional Figma prototype showcasing user flows and interaction design. This project was my final year thesis, undergoing multiple jury reviews and feedback rounds, which helped in refining the design. It has also been exhibited for public feedback. While real-time emergency testing is pending, the next stage is app development and collaboration for further technical implementation.

How it is different

Allert is unique because it activates only when needed—during emergencies or biometric anomalies—avoiding the constant visibility and stigma of traditional medical IDs. It integrates into existing smartwatches using built-in sensors, requiring no extra device. Unlike static IDs, Allert uses both audio and visual alerts to inform bystanders, increasing visibility in critical moments. It’s also customizable—users can modify alert messages and medical details to suit their condition. Beyond emergencies, Allert offers proactive, location-aware reminders in allergy-prone areas like restaurants or hospitals. It blends daily usability with emergency readiness, offering a discreet, tech-enabled, and dignified alternative to conventional solutions. In addition to this, it gives epipen usage instructions that no other medical ID gives, creating awareness.

Future plans

I'm exploring patentability while seeking funding and partnerships to develop Allert into a working product. The next step is building a functional prototype for real-world emergency simulations. I'm also forming a core team to grow this into a health-focused startup and seeking mentorship in tech development, health data integration, regulatory compliance, and business strategy. The goal is to make Allert accessible, scalable, and globally adaptable—starting from India and expanding to countries with rising allergy risks, high smartwatch usage, and better emergency response systems.

Awards

Allert has been recognized with the Empathy-Driv en Excellence Award as a design thinker at the Beyond Research Conference (BRC) 2025. It has also been shortlisted as a winner(unofficial) for the Hong Kong Global Design Awards.