This year has placed a spotlight on our medical systems and personal health. 

As we plunge into a second wave and continue to endure the social and economic damage the coronavirus pandemic has wrought, it is more important than ever that we remember to take the best care of ourselves that we can — both physically and mentally. 

COVID-19 is now spreading at the same time as the typical cold and flu season, and with respiratory illnesses making the rounds over the winter months, the prospect of a tough period ahead of us means that staying healthy goes beyond physical fitness — we need to try and keep on top of our sleep patterns and stress levels, too. 

Below, we have compiled a list of gadgets and tech products that may help you monitor or improve your health over the coming months. 

From Google‘s commitment to never pursue AI applications that might cause harm, to Microsoft‘s “AI principles”, through IBM‘s defense of fairness and transparency in all algorithmic matters: big tech is promoting an responsible AI agenda, and it seems companies large and small are following the lead.  

Statistics speak for themselves. While in 2019, a mere 5% of organizations had come up with an ethics charter that framed how AI systems should be developed and used, the proportion jumped to 45% in 2020. Key words such as “human agency”, “governance”, “accountability” or “non-discrimination” are becoming central components of many companies’ AI values. The concept of responsible technology, it would seem, is slowly making its way from the conference room and into the boardroom. 

This renewed interest in ethics, despite the topic’s complex and often abstract dimensions, has been largely motivated by various pushes from both governments and citizens