
Developer of Health Tracking Devices
On July 17, 2019, VCBeat (WeChat ID: vcbeat) learned that Withings announced an update to its connected blood pressure cuff product line, launching two new products: an upgraded version of its existing home-use cuff and a premium cardiac monitor with built-in electrocardiogram (ECG) functionality. Both devices allow users to share their readings and recordings with providers via a mobile app and will integrate with Apple’s Personal Health Records system.
Withings was founded on June 1, 2008, and is headquartered in Paris, France. Withings has long been renowned for its health tracking devices; since 2009, the company has been dedicated to developing hardware and software products related to health. The company has launched smart scales capable of measuring weight, body fat percentage, heart rate, and air quality, as well as smart blood pressure monitors, baby monitors, and the Aura smart sleep aid. These products connect via Wi-Fi, enabling health data to be transmitted directly to health apps.
Withings’ newly launched inaugural device, the BPM Connect (priced at $99.95/€99.95/£89.95), is an FDA-cleared and CE-compliant product designed to monitor systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate. While the new version continues to upload readings to smart devices, its onboard LED display allows users to view their results directly, eliminating the need to operate a smartphone or tablet.
Withings’ second device, the BPM Core (priced between €229.99 and €249.95), also features detection capabilities for atrial fibrillation and cardiac abnormalities. After a 90-second reading, the device displays heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG results on its LED screen and within the connected app. The app then informs users whether their ECG indicates normal sinus rhythm, atrial fibrillation, or an “inconclusive” result, and issues alerts when valvular heart disease may be present.
Withings’ two new devices are dedicated to helping patients with cardiovascular disease monitor their condition. Patients can perform multiple tests in a single sitting using the device and then share the results with their doctors or specialists, thereby reducing patient burden and increasing their engagement in care.
“We are delighted to launch BPM Core and BPM Connect, as these two medical devices can provide patients with detailed personal blood pressure information,” said Eric Carreel, President of Withings, in a statement. “BPM Core is the most sophisticated and comprehensive home cardiovascular monitor to date. On one hand, it allows people to monitor their daily heart health from home. On the other hand, our new BPM Connect is specifically designed for those who wish to monitor their heart health in a simple way; it can be used without a smartphone and even on the go.”
BPM Connect is now available for purchase in the U.S. and Europe through Apple Stores, Apple.com, Withings.com, and other retailers. As the product is still awaiting FDA approval, Withings plans to launch it in the U.S. market in the third quarter of 2019.
(Compiled by Cheng Tao)