Withings ScanWatch: A Smartwatch Alternative

The Evolution of Smartwatches: From Tiny iPhones to True Timepieces

Upon its initial release, the Apple Watch generated considerable discussion regarding its “digital crown” and “complications.” For seasoned watch enthusiasts, this terminology seemed redundant – a watch inherently possesses such features.

At that juncture, Apple appeared constrained by its background as a technology firm. Essentially, it wasn’t innovating a smartwatch; rather, it was developing a miniaturized iPhone designed to be worn on the wrist, while simultaneously attempting to persuade consumers that it was, in fact, a traditional wristwatch.

A Parallel in Automotive Design

A similar pattern can be observed within the automotive industry. Many established car manufacturers initially pondered how to integrate substantial battery packs and electric drivetrains into existing vehicle designs. Conversely, certain automakers – notably Tesla – adopted a fundamentally different strategy.

Tesla’s approach centered on the concept of creating a car analogous to an iPhone, one that continually improves through ongoing software updates. This resulted in a vehicle that distinguishes itself markedly from conventional automobiles. Preferences for Tesla’s interior and ownership experience versus newer Mercedes-Benz electric models are subjective, but the core difference lies in a contrasting design and functional philosophy.

Introducing the ScanWatch: A Watchmaker’s Approach

This leads us to the Withings ScanWatch. Withings has consistently pursued a distinct path compared to Apple.

With its comparatively understated watches that genuinely resemble traditional timepieces, it addressed the same challenge Apple faced, but from the perspective of a watchmaker. The question became: how to engineer a sophisticated, functional watch that maintains the aesthetic and feel of a classic watch, while incorporating a selection of smart features?

The Steel HR served as a precursor, and the Withings ScanWatch represents a logical and more ambitious advancement.

Functionality and Limitations

The differing design philosophy means the Withings ScanWatch cannot function as a remote camera shutter for your smartphone. It lacks the capability for voice calls, text messaging, email access, music playback, or voice recording.

If these functionalities are essential to you, the Withings ScanWatch may not be the right choice. You would be seeking a miniature supercomputer, not a smart wristwatch.

Design and Build Quality

After spending time with Withings’ flagship smartwatch, I consistently found myself impressed, both by its capabilities and, crucially, by its limitations.

I discontinued wearing an Apple Watch due to its design – a sterile black square akin to a smartphone – and its incessant notifications. While these notifications can be disabled, doing so diminishes the watch’s value, particularly considering its daily charging requirement.

The Withings ScanWatch is fundamentally different. It presents itself as a simple, minimalist wristwatch. With the PMOLED display deactivated, it could easily be mistaken for a refined, understated timepiece from a luxury watch brand.

The display isn’t a high-resolution retina display, but this trade-off yields up to a month of battery life. The watch feels substantial – heavier than expected, but in a reassuring manner. Its presence is noticeable, a quality appreciated by those accustomed to wearing premium watches.

Health and Wellness Focus

The ScanWatch integrates a wealth of advanced technology into a wristwatch, prioritizing health and wellness features. These features extend the functionality of its fitness tracker origins, rather than simply mirroring smartphone capabilities.

FDA Clearance and Medical-Grade Tracking

The watch has been available in Europe for some time, and the delay in its U.S. launch underscores its unique nature. It required clearance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its U.S. release.

The integrated EKG is sufficiently accurate, the company asserts, to detect atrial fibrillation (afib), a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia and a significant risk factor for stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular issues.

The company states that a prescription may be required to access this data, and the initial EKG measurement must be analyzed by a medical professional. The rationale behind this requirement, and how it differs from other smartwatch manufacturers with similar EKG functionality, remains unclear.

Activation of the EKG approval process is free, with no charges for continued EKG use, regardless of approval status. Withings is also working to make the EKG functionality universally accessible without prescription or additional costs, mirroring the approaches of Apple, Samsung, and others in securing FDA approval.

A Health-First Device

Some may perceive these requirements as excessive. The company proactively addressed concerns before the watch’s release, publishing a dedicated FAQ regarding the EKG functionality.

This proactive approach highlights the company’s commitment to being a health-centric device. It aligns seamlessly with Withings’ broader product portfolio – including smart sleep trackers, blood pressure cuffs, smart thermometers, and body-fat-measuring scales – and the exceptional Withings Health Mate app, which serves as the central hub for all Withings devices.

Exceptional Technology in a Stylish Package

The ScanWatch incorporates a comprehensive suite of advanced technologies, including heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen monitoring, EKG functionality, step tracking, workout and activity tracking, connected GPS, an altimeter, sleep tracking, and smart wake-up alarms.

As a technology reviewer, I lack the medical expertise to definitively assess the accuracy of these features. However, conversations with medical professionals suggest that while not equivalent to multi-thousand-dollar medical equipment, the ScanWatch provides valuable insights for a consumer-grade device.

For individuals prioritizing both health and style, the Withings ScanWatch is an excellent choice. It represents a significant advancement in wearable technology and injects fresh vitality into a category that was becoming stagnant.

I intend to purchase a ScanWatch with my own funds once this review unit is returned to Withings – a testament to my positive impression, especially considering my generally skeptical approach to new gadgets.

The Withings ScanWatch is available in two sizes, featuring a 38 mm and 42 mm watch face. Image Credits: Withings Withings’ Health Mate app is exceptional, particularly for users of multiple Withings health products. It integrates with Google Fit and Apple Health Kit, allowing data transfer to your preferred ecosystem. Image Credits: Haje Kamps for TechCrunch The overall build quality and attention to detail of the ScanWatch are remarkable. It feels more like a premium watch than a miniaturized computer. Image Credits: Haje Kamps for TechCrunch Withings’ ScanWatch incorporates a wealth of medical-grade trackers. The EKG functionality is a standout feature of the watch/app combination. Image Credits: Haje Kamps for TechCrunch The Withings ScanWatch comes in two sizes. This is the 38 mm version, which fits comfortably on my wrists. Image Credits: Haje Kamps for TechCrunch