At a recent tech show designed to show off cool things, Birmingham-based AerBetic was recognized as having one of the coolest devices.

CNBC named AerBetic’s wearable alert device for diabetics as one of the Consumer Electronic Show’s five coolest things.

The first-of-its-kind device can be worn as a watch, a bracelet or a pendant and uses gas sensors to inform and alert diabetes patients and their caregivers.

According to the company’s website, the device applies the same science behind the use of service dogs to help diabetics.

When diabetic episodes occur, people’s skin and breath emit certain gases. Some dogs have been trained to use their heightened sense of smell to detect those gases and alert their owners they are about to suffer an episode.

The AerBetic device uses state-of-the-art technology to detect those same gases at the parts per billion level.

The AerBetic product also includes a mobile app that alerts device users and caregivers when their condition warrants.

The non-invasive nature of the product sets it apart from other detection devices.

“The ability to determine a patient’s status without the need for invasive and costly sensors will enable a higher quality of life for diabetes patients and their caregivers worldwide,” AerBetic CEO Arnar Thors told Made in Alabama.

The company launched in July 2018 and has already enjoyed significant support from within the Yellowhammer State.

AerBetic won the Alabama LaunchPad startup competition and was awarded the i6 Challenge Grant from Southern Research.

As the company continues its effort to bring the product to market, it is looking for beta testers. Those interested may contact the company through its website.

Tim Howe is an owner and editor of Yellowhammer News.