PNOE's New Face Mask Aims for Lab-Grade Breath Testing
PNOE introduces a self-serve wearable breath-testing mask measuring 23 biomarkers without requiring expert operators.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- PNOE launched a self-serve version of its breath-testing mask requiring no trained operator.
- The device captures 23 biomarkers, including VO2 max and metabolic rate metrics.
- Detachable electronics allow multiple users to share hardware while keeping individual silicone masks.
- The company employs 110 people, is profitable, and grows over 100% annually.
Ten-year-old health startup PNOE is transforming physical performance diagnostics by developing a self-serve version of its breath-testing mask, designed to let users conduct measurements independently without requiring a trained operator like its predecessor devices.
This shift aims to eliminate operational barriers, opening up deployment opportunities in fitness centers without dedicated staff and potentially pharmacies, according to co-founder Atsalakis. PNOE's goal is to deliver laboratory-grade accuracy in a compact, portable package paired with software that translates results into actionable recommendations.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
PNOE's testing system captures a total of 23 biomarkers, which include VO2 max, resting metabolic rate indicating calories burned at rest, and metabolic flexibility reflecting how effectively the body switches between burning fat and carbohydrates.
Atsalakis explains that these metrics answer detailed questions blood tests cannot address, such as a person's exact caloric requirements or optimal training regimens. Amid the booming longevity wellness trend, VO2 max has emerged as a key metric linked to lower mortality rates.
"We made it accessible to everyone"
Atsalakis
Developing portable metabolic testing equipment addresses a critical pain point in the modern wellness market. Previously, measuring VO2 max or metabolic flexibility was restricted to hospital labs or elite sports centers. By streamlining the process and enabling hardware sharing, PNOE lowers provider costs and broadens consumer accessibility amidst intense competition from wearable giants like Apple, Garmin, and Whoop estimating these metrics via heart rate.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
PNOE also resolves post-pandemic hygiene concerns by engineering electronic components to detach cleanly from the silicone mask and straps. This enables multiple individuals to share the costly hardware while each user retains their personal silicone mask.
PNOE traces its origins to Atsalakis's PhD research in sensing technologies at the University of Cambridge before co-founding the firm with childhood friend Panos Papadiamantis, who serves as chief product officer. Currently, about 85% of its business originates in the U.S. market, with ongoing expansion across Europe, Latin America, and Asia through partners.
Source: TechCrunch
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