AI toothbrushes, introduced in 2017, have grown in popularity with many brands offering high-priced models. Despite claims of improved oral health, scientific support is limited, and companies seem more interested in data collection.
Kolibree launched the first AI toothbrush, Ara, at CES 2017, using deep learning algorithms to analyze brushing habits. Other brands, like Colgate, Oral-B, Philips, and Oclean, now offer similar products that sync data to apps for user feedback and product recommendations.
Though these toothbrushes can identify missed areas, skepticism remains about their necessity. Companies use them to gather consumer data and increase revenue through targeted product sales.
In personal care, the trend is shifting from product sales to services. AI toothbrushes fit this model by offering brushing insights while collecting valuable data. For instance, P&G uses AI to enhance product development, addressing flaws in traditional feedback methods.
In essence, AI toothbrushes provide new revenue and data collection opportunities for companies, questioning whether their primary goal is dental health improvement or data mining.
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