Khoi Afriwatch1 uses open-source apps for individual usage, which are compatible with Android, iOS and Huawei operating systems.

Telkom Group-backed South African start-up Khoi Tech has announced plans to supply the national cricket team, the Proteas, when they compete at the International World Cup next month.

The tech start-up, based in Soweto, Johannesburg, has developed its own smart watch, Khoi Afriwatch1, which provides real-time information on vital health metrics, including heart rate, body temperature, blood oxygen saturation (spo2), stress levels and sleep patterns.

“We are close to finalising a deal to provide Cricket South Africa with our innovative Afriwatch1,” says Seati Moloi, CEO and founder, Khoi Tech.

Having only launched in October last year, the company says a vote of confidence like this from the Proteas is a major step forward for the company.

“What impressed the Proteas’ technical team is not only the ability to collect and report on group training data, but also sleeping data. This kind of information is critical for players’ recovery during tournaments,” says Moloi.

While this is vital for professional sports teams, such metrics can also be used in the early detection and management of diseases such as heart attacks, or strokes.

Another important feature, he adds, is the smart watch’s ability to enable real-time alerts to the wearer’s family members and employers in the case of emergencies.

“With this data at your wrist, quick life-saving interventions become possible, revolutionising personal healthcare,” adds Moloi.

The watch also includes 12 sports modes, music control, alarm function, call rejection, message notifications, and even remote access to a connected smartphone’s camera. In addition, battery life lasts up to four days on a single charge, he claims.

Khoi Afriwatch1 uses open-source apps for individual usage, which are compatible with Android, iOS and Huawei operating systems.

“The open-source apps also integrate with other sports and heath applications including Strava, Apple Health, Samsung Fit,” says Moloi.

Khoi Afriwatch1 has been approved by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa.

The company has received R500 000 support from Telkom’s FutureMakers programme for further research and development.

Speaking of the support for Khoi Tech, Telkom’s Group executive for Innovation and Transformation, Dr Mmaki Jantjies, says: “We are proud to support and invest in local innovation.