Breaking barriers: Samsung launches Impulse, an AI-powered app for Android smartwatches to aid individuals with speech disorders

Samsung has announced that Impulse, an application designed to assist individuals with speech disorders, is now available for all Android smartwatches. The app utilizes Artificial Intelligence (AI) and a vibration system to help users enhance their speech fluency.

More than 1 percent of the global population, or around 70 million people, experience speech disorders such as stuttering or aphasia. These conditions can lead to interruptions, repetitions or prolongations in speech. To address these challenges, Samsung introduced Impulse earlier this year as a free app that uses AI to provide rhythmic support and adapts to the user’s specific speech disorder.

Initially released for Galaxy Watch6 smartwatches, Impulse is now accessible for download on Google Play and the Galaxy Store for watches compatible with Android 10 and higher versions. On World Aphasia Day celebrated on June 28th, Samsung announced the availability of the Impulse application for all smartwatches compatible with the app.

The app uses an algorithm based on Natural Language Processing to analyze words and convert them into rhythmic vibrations. This creates a discreet sensory pattern on the user’s wrist that helps improve their speech rhythm and fluidity. In addition to assisting with speaking, Impulse offers over 250 rhythm and tone exercises that gradually increase in difficulty as the user progresses in their speech control.

Developed in collaboration with Speechcare & Tartamudez Center and endorsed by various associations including the Association of Logopedas in Spain and The Portuguese Speech Therapy Society, Impulse is part of Samsung’s Technology with Purpose program. Overall, Impulse aims to provide physical support and discreet assistance through vibration to help individuals with speech disorders recognize and improve their speech rhythm, ultimately enabling them to speak more fluidly and confidently.