Withings Beamo in the test: Listen through its paces

The measuring device is an approximately 14 cm long narrow stick, smaller than a TV remote control. It contains a contactless temperature sensor, two stainless steel electrodes for a 1-channel ECG, an optical SPO2 sensor for measuring the blood oxygen saturation and a digital stethoscope. The function is selected via a large 4-way button and switch between a maximum of eight users. Some results appear on a TFT-LCD immediately after the measurement, which can also be read out outdoors.

If you keep the stick for a 1-channel ECG, the display rotates. So it can be followed during the EKG whether the curve runs in the sinus rhythm or reveals signs of atrial fibrillation. In addition, a message at the end of the measurement confirms the result.

A PPG sensor sits in the right electrode. PPG stands for photoplethysmography and is an optical process that also use wearables such as the Apple Watch to determine the oxygen content in the blood. With the BEAMO, this happens automatically during an EKG and on request also separately. During the light -sensitive measurements, a pressure sensor makes sure that the finger is calm and not too firm on the sensor. Otherwise, the graphic display changes. If the saturation is continuing less than 90 %, you should see a doctor.

That was the reading sample of our Heise Plus article “Withings Beamo in the test: put your heart and lungs on”. With a Heise Plus subscription you can read the whole article.