Withings first unveiled its pioneering U-Scan system at CES 2023, introducing it as a highly innovative and completely non-invasive home health monitoring solution discreetly installed within a toilet bowl. Officially arriving on the market two years later, the device represents a tangible step toward integrating medical-grade analysis into everyday lifestyle habits. Unlike Kohler’s camera-based Dekoda system—which utilizes visual recognition technology to examine stool samples—the U-Scan focuses on urine analysis. By detecting and collecting minute samples every time the toilet is used, it evaluates the chemical composition of the user’s urine through replaceable analytical cartridges. The collected data are then seamlessly transmitted to the companion Withings mobile application, where users receive detailed insight into their personal health metrics along with guidance and tips for potential improvements in hydration, nutrition, or organ function.
The U-Scan officially becomes available today across both the United States and several European nations, launching initially with two distinct cartridges engineered to monitor different areas of health. The first, called U-Scan Nutrio, concentrates on nutritional well-being. It quantifies four essential urinary biomarkers—among them hydration status, the presence of ketones indicative of fat metabolism, and vitamin C levels—helping users gain a clearer perspective of their dietary balance and nutrient intake. The second cartridge option, known as U-Scan Calci, is specifically designed to assess parameters related to kidney health. By tracking calcium levels and other relevant markers, it assists in identifying possible imbalances or early warning signs associated with kidney stone formation or other renal issues. Although a third cartridge intended for evaluating reproductive and hormonal health had been announced simultaneously with the device’s introduction at CES 2023, that module will not be part of the launch lineup. Initially, Withings intended to classify the U-Scan under the category of medical devices pending FDA evaluation. However, the company later opted to define it instead as a general “wellness product,” thereby allowing the product to reach consumers directly without the formal regulatory clearance process.
In terms of pricing and composition, the base-level Proactive set begins at $349.95. This package includes the main U-Scan device itself, a combined charging and cleaning station for hygienic maintenance, subscription access to the Withings Plus digital service, and a single Nutrio or Calci cartridge preloaded for 22 analytical tests—enough to provide up to three months of data assuming two measurements per week. For those requiring greater frequency or extended usage, Withings offers the upgraded Intensive package priced at $429.95. This enhanced option doubles the number of cartridges to two and supplies 44 tests total, thereby accommodating more frequent testing for families or individuals with specific health monitoring needs. Replacement cartridges are conveniently available on a subscription basis and can be shipped regularly to ensure continuous operation; each cartridge is priced at $99.95 individually or $179.95 when purchased in pairs. Through this combination of modular sensor technology, mobile integration, and user-centric design, the Withings U-Scan positions itself as one of the most accessible bridges between smart home innovation and proactive personal healthcare.
Sourse: https://www.theverge.com/news/808381/withings-u-scan-toilet-urine-test-health-nutrio-calci
