Image of Withings’ U-Scan Pee-Monitoring Device
bysmart scalewithbeauty watchWell-known French manufacturer Withings has now officially entered the field of medical analysis. The U-Scan they released at CES is a device that can collect and analyze urine. It has a pebble-like shape and a diameter of 90mm. It usually only needs to be hung on the inside of the toilet like a deodorant ball. There is a urine collection port at its lowest point. After the sensor on the surface detects the presence of urine, the micropump inside the device will be automatically activated to send a small amount of urine into the body. The sample will then trigger a chemical reaction in the microfluidic system inside the U-Scan, and following analysis, the user will be able to know the state of his body.
The bottom of U-Scan is equipped with replaceable test cartridges to meet different detection needs. So far, Withings has reached cooperation with two medical centers in Europe, trying to explore ways to use U-Scan to find kidney stones and bladder cancer. In fact, U-Scan was originally developed to facilitate decentralized clinical trials, which the company hopes will eventually be used for large-scale cancer screening.
For the consumer market, Withings has developed U-Scan Cycle Sync and U-Scan Nutri Balance. The former can be used for menstrual tracking and can predict ovulation cycles, hydration levels, and nutritional levels. The latter can provide a “detailed metabolic guide for hydration and nutrition”, which can help users better grasp their own water balance, nutritional level, fat metabolism, vitamin C content and other physical condition information. Most importantly, through U-Scan Nutri Balance, you can also monitor your own ketone body data and urine pH, which will help you judge whether your eating habits are healthy enough.
After processing, U-Scan will transmit the test results to Withings’ server via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth (the factory emphasizes that it will comply with European GDPR regulations), and reset the test box to prepare for the new test. According to the official statement, this device can distinguish different family members and conduct corresponding tests for them separately. In addition, U-Scan generally needs to charge and replace the test box every three months, and the charging is carried out through USB-C.
According to Withings’ current plan, U-Scan will be the first to be launched in Europe in Q2 2023. A basic kit including the readout and a test cartridge (both in the Cycle Sync and Nutri Balance versions) costs 500 euros, with refills expected to cost 30 euros.
