Sun exposure can damage skin in minutes, and general weather app UV data is often too broad to be useful. The90 aims to solve this with the Gem, a wearable necklace that functions as what the company calls "the first personal sun intelligence system."
According to TechRadar, the Gem is a pendant-style necklace that contains an ultraviolet (UV) light sensor. It measures both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays in the user's immediate surroundings. The device then combines this data with a personalized skin profile that includes skin type, current clothing, and whether sunscreen has already been applied. Through a free companion app, it provides actionable advice on when to reapply sunscreen, cover up with more clothing, or seek shade.
How It Works and Key Features
The Gem's sensor provides more accurate UV readings than standard weather apps, which cover broad areas rather than the user's exact location. The app's personalized factors — clothing, skin type, sunscreen status — allow for tailored recommendations instead of generic advice.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sensor type | Ultraviolet (UV) light sensor for UVA and UVB |
| Personalization | Skin type, clothing, sunscreen status |
| Output | Real-time advice via companion app |
| Form factor | Pendant necklace (one style only) |
| Price | $299 |
| Companion app | Free, available for iOS and Android |
The device is positioned as high-tech jewelry, which may justify its premium price but also limits appeal to those who prefer different aesthetics. TechRadar noted that having only one style could be a risk for a device that doubles as a health tracker and a fashion accessory.
Limitations and Market Positioning
At $299, the Gem is a fairly expensive and therefore niche device, according to TechRadar. The single design option may not suit all tastes. Despite these limitations, the product has promise, as The90 was founded by a Fitbit/Google veteran, bringing experience from major wearable tech companies.
The Gem's approach to UV protection is more granular than existing solutions, but the price point and design limitations may restrict its adoption. For enterprise technology leaders interested in IoT and personalized health wearables, the Gem represents an example of how on-body sensors can deliver context-aware advice. Its personalization engine — using skin profile and environmental data — could inform future employee wellness or field worker safety applications, though The90 has not announced any enterprise plans.
Industry Context
TechRadar's coverage highlights the growing trend of specialized wearables that go beyond general fitness tracking. The Gem's focus on a single health metric (UV exposure) with high personalization is a model that could extend to other environmental hazards. The involvement of a Fitbit/Google veteran suggests a pedigree in consumer health tech, though the company remains small.
For technology procurement leaders, the Gem illustrates how sensor accuracy and algorithmic personalization can create value — but also that consumer pricing and limited form factors may not scale for business use. No enterprise deployment or supply chain applications are mentioned in the source.
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