A Withings already has a reputation for surprising with each edition of CES, standing out in the health technology landscape with devices that capture the public's attention. At CES 2024, the company presents the BeamO, a tool for a complete health assessment that follows the lines of your existing less thermometer. 5w4k5v
Known as a “multiscope,” this $250 device goes further by assessing body thermal sensation, monitoring blood oxygenation, performing an ECG in a lead, and, notably, acting as a digital stethoscope. When positioned on the chest, the device provides the ability to hear internal sounds, even allowing records to be sent for more detailed analysis by a doctor.
What is Withings BeamO? 135r12
O Withings BeamO is an innovative 4-in-1 healthcare device designed to provide a wide range of crucial information for health monitoring. This versatile device integrates a digital stethoscope that captures and provides information about heart and lung sounds. Additionally, it features a medical-grade 1-lead ECG capable of detecting atrial fibrillation (AFib), an oximeter to measure blood oxygen levels, and a non- thermometer to assess body temperature.
Under the title of “multiscope”, the BeamO da Withings was recognized in CES 2024 as an innovative product in the Digital Health, Embedded Technologies and Smart Home categories. This portable device, smaller than a smartphone, makes it possible to conveniently take vital measurements, both at home and on the go. With Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity, the BeamO allows easy access to collected data, providing a long-term view that assists in diagnoses and medical monitoring, whether in face-to-face consultations or telehealth.
The design of the BeamO resembles other non- thermometers from Withings, but its technology incorporates photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors, electrodes, a digital stethoscope, and an improved version of the infrared temperature sensor found in the Withings Thermo. PPG sensors, known as the green LED on smartwatches, measure heart rate by shining light on the skin. The device captures acoustic noises from the chest or back, converting them into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the BeamO, functioning in a similar way to many electronic stethoscopes.
You can listen to the captured sounds directly or transfer the audio to the application Withings via a USB-C to headphone adapter. During telehealth sessions, it is feasible to stream the audio directly to the healthcare provider. O BeamO has the daily ability to detect atrial fibrillation, provide notifications of abnormal heart rate and identify elevations in body temperature, in addition to indicating possible signs of oxygen desaturation in the blood.
How does the device health assessment work? i3g51
Operation of the Withings BeamO in health assessment is conducted through the combination of four distinct functionalities. Using a digital stethoscope, the device records and provides detailed information about heart and lung sounds. Additionally, the presence of a 1-lead ECG makes it possible to detect cardiac irregularities, including atrial fibrillation (AFib). The integrated oximeter measures blood oxygen levels, while the non- thermometer assesses body temperature.
When placed on the chest, the BeamO captures acoustic noises and converts them into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the device. Direct listening to these sounds is possible, as is transferring the data to the application Withings via a USB-C to headphone adapter. In telehealth situations, direct transmission of audio to healthcare professionals is feasible.
In everyday life, the BeamO performs atrial fibrillation detection, sends notifications in case of heart rate abnormalities, identifies elevations in body temperature and alerts to possible signs of oxygen desaturation in the blood. Despite not yet being clinically validated, the Withings plans to subject the device to medical evaluations, seeking to obtain CE marking and FDA authorization to position the BeamO as a reliable medical device on the market. This innovative approach concentrates several essential tools into a single device, providing convenience and measurement sharing within a family.
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Sources: The Verge, Withings e Engadget.
reviewed by Glaucon Vital in 9 / 1 / 24.
