Clip-on SunBooster uses near-infrared LEDs to bring benefits of sunlight indoors

Dutch tech start-up SunLED Life Science has developed a gadget that mimics sunlight and attaches to computer monitors and laptops to deliver near-infrared light to users while they work.

The SunBooster device, unveiled at the MWC Barcelona tech fair, promises to boost users' mental and physical health by providing the essential part of sunlight absent in indoor environments.

Near-infrared light (NIR) is an invisible part of the solar spectrum that makes up 50 per cent of sunlight and plays a vital role in helping humans feel happier, healthier and more energised.

"Today's modern lifestyle lacks exposure to natural sunlight, with many people spending most of their time working indoors in an office, at home or in a car," explained Dr. Anne Berends, CTO and co-founder of SunLED.

"The chronic absence of NIR light can have serious systemic health consequences," added Berends, who spent over five years researching healthy near-infrared light before partnering with lighting industry specialist Ayhan Siriner to launch SunLED.

"Our technology can be integrated into almost any product to give everyone access to the health benefits of natural sunlight wherever they work, making every workspace healthier."

SunLED's patented technology uses LEDs to deliver targeted near-infrared light with a wavelength of 850 nanometers. Wavelengths higher than 750 nanometers are able to reach deep into skin cells and boost energy production, the company claims.

This sets the device apart from traditional SAD lamps such as the Lumie, Sunday Light or Dean Norton's Daylight lamp, which use super-bright lights to fight seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

The SunBooster technology can be applied to a wide range of contexts and products, such as electronic devices, screens, lighting fixtures and car dashboards.

The near-infrared light it emits is invisible and does not produce heat, so it can be seamlessly integrated into a workplace setting without disturbing the user's daily routine, according to the company.

The proof-of-concept computer clip-on presented at MWC 2025 demonstrated how the technology could be used to provide the benefits of natural sunlight to users spending long hours in front of a screen.

SunLED is now seeking to partner with brands and manufacturers to incorporate its NIR technology into laptops, monitors and other connected devices.

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