Withings’ SpO2 Capable ScanWatch Is Finally Available to Order

During CES 2020, we found ourselves drawn to the Withings ScanWatch, a stylish wearable with SpO2 sensors and advanced algorithms. And after what seems like a lifetime (I can’t remember January 2020 at all), the ScanWatch is finally available in the U.S. with FDA approval for its unique health monitoring features.

There’s a few things that we need to clarify up front. First, the ScanWatch actually launched last year in Europe and Australia. Its delayed U.S. release is a result of the FDA approval process, which is required for any product that claims to detect medical conditions. While other smartwatches have ECG and SpO2 sensors, they don’t claim to detect atrial fibrillation or breathing disturbances so they can skip the FDA.

Of course, this makes ScanWatch the first wearable to get FDA approval for ECG and SpO2-based health detection features. It’s an incredibly unique product in the U.S. smartwatch market, as it’s a certified medical device. (According to Withings, the ScanWatch is so good that it’s utilized in some medical settings. German doctors are currently using the wearable as a cheap way to monitor COVID-19 patients, for example.)

But the ScanWatch may not appeal to everyone. It’s a hybrid smartwatch, meaning that it has analog hands and a tiny integrated display. That said, it’s swim-proof up to 5ATM, can track 30 different activities (walking, running, etc), and has a 30-day battery life. The stainless steel case and sapphire glass screen are also quite nice, especially if you’re coming from a Fitbit.

Withings’ ScanWatch is now available in the U.S. starting at $279. Rose Gold and Horizon versions arrive in the U.S. sometime next year for $299 and $499, respectively.