Netflix Invents Socks That Will Pause Your Show if You Fall Asleep
Netflix proved once again this week that the company really understands their customers. On Wednesday Netflix introduced a product it calls “Netflix socks.” The wool socks feature a sewn-in electronic device that automatically pauses whatever program is streaming on Netflix when it detects that the wearer has fallen asleep.
So how do they work? According to the company the technology is based on a method called actigraphy. A sensor detects when you've stopped moving for a prolonged period of time and triggers a signal to your TV that pauses Netflix. When it detects that you've fallen asleep, an LED light in the cuff of the sock flashes red, warning that the pause signal is about to be sent to your TV. Any motion will stop it from firing.
Netflix says the sensor is very sensitive to little movements, so it's good at detecting when you're just sitting still, actively watching, and when you've actually fallen asleep.
There is a catch. Complete socks are not up for sale. You have to put them together yourself. For those handy with a knitting needle watch their instructions here.