Recently, at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, East China, an innovative "electronic coffee(e-coffee) bracelet" drew crowds with its debut. Photo: web

Holding a cup of coffee for a quick energy boost has become a daily ritual for many. But recently, at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, East China, an innovative "electronic coffee (e-coffee) bracelet" drew crowds with its debut.

So, what exactly is this e-coffee bracelet? In the Expo's innovation zone, the bracelet's developer introduced the device to The Paper, noting that it contains no coffee, instead it uses electrical pulses to stimulate the median nerve to increase blood flow to the brain and transmit excitatory signals to the neurons in the cerebral cortex. 

The bracelet also emits blue-light wavelengths said to boost oxygenated hemoglobin in the prefrontal cortex helping users feel alert and refreshed in no time.

It offers five adjustable intensity levels, and wearers may experience a mild tingling sensation at the contact point during use, according to The Paper.

The "no-drink-but-just-electric "concept sparked online concern over whether the bracelet could cause side effects.

"The bracelet comes with an adhesive electrode patch- turn it on when you're feeling drowsy, and off before bed, with no interfering with your sleep," said the product developer, as quoted by the official Douyin (China's Tiktok) account of the News Office of the People's Government of Zhejiang Province, noting that this caffeine-free and drink-free e-coffee bracelet relies on precise electrical pulses that mimic the energizing effects of coffee, providing a rapid and transient energy boost without the risk of jitters or palpitations, making it ideal for the caffeine-sensitive and free from the worry of habit formation.