Withings ScanWatch 2: what we want to see, potential release date

This article discusses rumours and our expectations for Withings ScanWatch 2. We also make a guess as far as to a potential release date.

Withings ScanWatch 2: Potential release date

To begin, it is worth noting that there have been no rumours or leaks regarding the next generation ScanWatch. Furthermore, we found no evidence of a filing to a regulatory agency for the device.

This is not to say that the device will not be released. Withings is better than some other brands at keeping secrets until the big reveal. And regulatory filings are frequently made just a few weeks before an actual launch.

On that note, the original ScanWatch debuted in November 2021, or just over a year ago. However, this is only to do with availability in the United States. It took over a year to obtain the FDA approvals needed to launch the hybrid. This is due to its ability to detect ECG and sleep apnea.

The company had better luck in Europe, where it had received CE medical clearance a year earlier. In other words, the current iteration is more than two years old. That means it’s time for an upgrade.

To their credit, Withings is still providing firmware updates for the original watch. And there was an interim version of the device called Withings Horizon, a diving inspired take on the device.

Withings ScanWatch 2: five features we would like to see

ScanWatch is the most feature-packed hybrid you can buy. In our hands-on review we discovered it to be a wearable that requires so little interaction that you can effectively forget about charging. Its design can be described as beautiful, elegant, discrete, and sturdy.

ScanWatch is for those who want something that doesn’t look like a fitness tracker or smartwatch but performs the same functions. For those looking for powerful health tracking, but with a touch of class.

But what about the next iteration? As good as the original is, it does miss out on a few features.

1. Built-in GPS

With a built-in GPS, users can track their location and navigate without having to carry their smartphone with them.

This is especially useful for outdoor activities such as hiking, running, or cycling, where users may not want to bring their phone. This is due to the fact that the watch tracks location without relying on a paired smartphone.

Furthermore, built-in GPS in smartwatches is generally more accurate and precise than connected GPS. It employs a dedicated receiver capable of receiving multiple satellite signals.

Unfortunately, the original Scanwatch requires a smartphone to receive a GPS signal. GPS integration appears to be the next logical step for an upgraded watch.

2. Additional health sensors

You will struggle to find another hybrid with so many health sensors. The tech under the hood includes a PPG multi-wavelength heart rate/SpO2 sensor, stainless steel electrodes, altimeter, and high precision MEMS 3-axis accelerometer. Most would agree, that is an impressive list.

Continuous and accurate heart rate monitoring, however, is a must. The original device leaves a bit to be desired when it comes to heart rate accuracy during exercise.

Other enhancements could include improved sleep tracking with the addition of REM phases. In addition to mproved automatic activity tracking. Or, at the very least, the ability to disable automatic activity tracking.

A skin temperature sensor would be a welcome addition to ScanWatch’s current crop of health sensors. A number of other brands’ smartwatches already have this capability.

Blood pressure management from the wrist looks to be the next big thing. We expect a plethora of devices to launch in the near future with this ability. Could ScanWatch 2 be one of them?

3. NFC for contactless payments

NFC (Near Field Communication) is a wireless communication technology that allows for short-range communication between devices. It is used in smartwatches for a variety of purposes, including mobile payments, device pairing, public transportation, access control for smart home devices, and more. 

However, the most common application of NFC in smartwatches is for mobile payments. Users of NFC-enabled smartwatches can make purchases at participating retailers by holding their watch near a contactless terminal. This eliminates the need to carry cash or a physical credit card. Furthermore, some NFC-enabled smartwatches support the use of digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, which adds even more convenience.

Let’s hope Withings ScanWatch 2 comes with an NFC chip.

4. Speaker and microphone

The addition of a speaker and microphone on ScanWatch 2 makes sense. For example, Withings could add the ability for users to take calls without pulling out their phone, making it more convenient for people on the go.

A smartwatch with a speaker could also play music, making the device more versatile and allowing users to listen to their favourite tunes or podcasts directly from their wrist. This could be especially beneficial for people who enjoy exercising or doing other activities while listening to music.

5. Esthetic changes

Let’s face it. The current iteration of ScanWatch is georgeous. But that still doesn’t mean it can’t be improved on.

One thing we noticed during our review is that the timepiece is quite heavy. It would make sense to make it out of a lighter material. Apart from making it more comfortable on the wrist, it would ensure that the device does not move during high-intensity activity so its tracking data would be more accurate.

Furthermore, the current small display restricts smart features. Withings could consider expanding the 1.65-inch PMOLED. It may even use hybrid technology from other brands. Which have a larger smart display and physical hands that move out of the way when the screen is being used (for example a notification coming in).

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