Sound United Parent Masimo Launches $500 Health Watch

Sound United owner Masimo announced Wednesday the full-market release of its W1 health watch for consumer use. Calling it “the first of its kind,” the company, which makes blood parameter monitoring devices used in hospitals, said the W1 offers “accurate, continuous measurements and insightful health data” in a “lifestyle-friendly” wearable. The W1, which takes 86,4000 measurements a day, is pending Food and Drug Administration clearance. Masimo is selling the $499 watch direct to consumers. Masimo is also entering the general launch phase of a medical version of the W1 for use in medical applications outside the U.S., with additional measurement capabilities such as spot-check electrocardiogram and atrial fibrillation detection, the company said.