Web-Connected Bathroom Scale Gets Set For Launch
As the Internet of Things continues to slowly but surely ramp up, we're beginning to see more everyday 'objects' being connected to the Internet. One which caught our eye is a new web-connected bathroom scale. The company behind it is called BodyTrace and the product has been labeled 'eScale.' It wirelessly and automatically uploads a user's weight to the BodyTrace website, creating charts and recommendations from the data. The company claims that no software
configuration is required from the user to get it to work - perhaps because it relies on mobile technology (specifically the GSM cell phone network) rather than WiFi.
The BodyTrace eScale and accompanying website will be launched in September 2009. The eScale will retail for $119 and signing up to the website costs $19.99 / 3 months.
The website will be focused on weight monitoring. Features will include interactive weight and BMI charts, and a food diary and intake calculator. Of course there is a social networking component (almost goes without saying these days!) - users can create groups, upload pictures, have discussions, and so on. The website boasts a self-described "motivational interface," to encourage users to share their weight loss progress, exercise ideas, and recipes.
The BodyTrace blog makes for interesting reading, as it details the history of the product and how it evolved. From recent updates about privacy (you don't have to upload or share photos) and Twitter (there's been a lot of demand, so you'll now be able to "tweet your success" when the product launches), to beginnings and first drawings...
...to product design
...and the final products
I'm sure we'll see many more such products, everyday objects that connect to an accompanying website, over the coming months.
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As time passes technology will continue boosting together with internet access.
BodyTrace eScale is one of the upcoming technology focuses on weight monitoring.For sure men/ women who are weight conscious will purchase that of course for those who can only really afford it.
If you ask me, this looks much better http://www.withings.com/
I have to say withings looks better.
Hmm, now monitoring my weight even inside the bathroom is easy interesting..
You know... I see all these items that need a GSM or EDGE connection to them.
So, what I need a seperate wireless carrier plan to make it work?
It would be nice if they gave the option... either a wifi connection or a cell phone connection.
This looks amazing! But I hate that there's a monthly fee for using the website. That starts to make the whole thing really expensive. I guess for now I can just track my weight the old-fashioned way: by entering it into an iPhone app!
That's interesting. I hate that it relies on mobile technology rather than WiFi because there's a monthly fee for that. I have to agree that Withings looks much better.
Late to the game, (been traveling) but congrats Phil! Really excited to hear you have joined the great team at RWW and can't wait to read your thoughts!
Hi, my name is Gyula Borbely, I am one of the founders of BodyTrace.
I also think that Withings designed a beautiful scale, but there is one major difference between the 2 products. You get an installation guide with the Withings scale, simply because setting up a Wi-Fi connection can be very complicated. Networks can be password protected, or might not be available in your bathroom due to the water pipes for example.
When you receive our product in the mail, you just need to open the box and step on it. That's it, no settings, no installation! Yes, we do have monthly charges, as of now it's 23 cents / day, but we are working hard to reduce these costs in the near future. Thanks for the comments!
Gyula
That's really a damn good tool for measuring weight. I wonder how much innovative a man can be to carry out new things and market the products. Hats off man.
Thank you! I also like the walk-in bath tub, very innovative!
Gyula