In South Africa, a local doctor has invented a pill bottle that uses cell phone technology to remind patients to take their medication. Named the SIMpill, the device targets patients taking medication for long-term diseases; who missing a dose can have potentially life-threatening consequences.

When the patented bottle's cap is removed, an electronic chip sends an SMS to a secure central server, including a unique pill box identification number. If the SMS arrives too early or late, a reminder message is sent to the phone of the patient, a family member, or a health-care professional.

The SIMpill device will be launched next month.