Apple Partners With Biogen on Research Into Detecting Early Alzheimer's, Dementia Symptoms

Yahoo! Finance reports that Biogen is collaborating with Apple in a virtual study to explore use of the Apple Watch and iPhone in monitoring cognitive performance, and screening for deterioration in cognitive health, including mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The research study is slated to launch this year, and will recruit young and aging subjects. Its primary goal is to develop digital biomarkers to help monitor cognitive performance over time and identify early MCI symptoms. "The successful development of digital biomarkers in brain health would help address the significant need to accelerate patient diagnoses and empower physicians and individuals to take timely action," said Biogen CEO Michel Vounatsos. Apple COO Jeff Williams added that through this partnership, the company hopes "this study can help the medical community better understand a person's cognitive performance by simply having them engage with their Apple Watch and iPhone."