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BeamO is more than a thermometer. Cole Kan/Anna Gragert/CNET/Getty Images
A thermometer is a staple in medicine cabinets, and its task is simple: measure the body’s temperature. But will its simplicity stand the test of time? Health technology company Withings has given the modest thermometer a massive overhaul with BeamO. Dubbed the “thermometer of the future,” BeamO is a stethoscope, an electrocardiogram (ECG) and, yes, a thermometer, all in one device.
I reported on BeamO’s launch and FDA clearance back in November, and since then, Withings sent me the device so I could do my own testing. Over the last several weeks of trying BeamO and the connected Withings app, it has become clear to me what the company thinks the future of health care will look like.
BeamO’s one-button design makes it surprisingly simple to use
Similar to a traditional thermometer, the handheld BeamO is incredibly simple to use, despite its multiple functions. It has a single button with four scrolling directions and an LED screen. The contactless thermometer is on top, the digital stethoscope sits on the bottom, and the two electrodes for the electrocardiogram and SpO2 sensor (pulse oximeter) are on the right. The SpO2 for measuring blood oxygen isn’t available in the US.
On the left side of the device is the USB-C port for charging and plugging in headphones. BeamO has an 8-month battery life and a one-hour charging time.
BeamO comes with its own travel case, which is great for keeping it scratch-free. Anna Gragert/CNET
Once it’s on, you’ll see your name at the top, the option to use BeamO as a guest, settings (for device information, resetting and updating) and the option to turn off the device. When you click on your name or “guest,” you’ll have the choice to take an ECG, your temperature or use the stethoscope to listen to your heart and lungs.
BeamO works with both iOS and Android and syncs data with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth -- though Wi-Fi is recommended.
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