Overview
This episode of the Computer America Show featured an in-depth interview with Bob Markantonio, Senior Account Director at Healbe, discussing their new product, the GoBe 2 Smart Life Band. The show also included a social media contest winner announcement, technology news updates, and listener engagement activities.
Healbe and GoBe 2 Introduction
- Healbe is based in Moscow and St. Petersburg, originally focused on non-invasive glucose monitoring.
- The GoBe 2 is a wellness band designed to automatically track calorie intake, hydration, sleep quality, stress, steps, and heart rate.
- The technology includes accelerometers, optical and pressure sensors, and a unique impedance sensor for fluid analysis.
Key Features and Technology
- GoBe 2’s flow technology uses impedance sensors to estimate calorie intake and hydration by monitoring cellular fluid changes.
- The device delivers personalized data rather than relying on demographic statistical models.
- Calorie tracking accuracy is approximately 85%, surpassing manual logging methods.
- Hydration tracking is emphasized for weight loss and overall health.
- The band also measures sleep quality, stress (via galvanic skin response), heart rate, steps, and blood pressure.
Market Position & Use Cases
- The GoBe 2 targets the weight loss market, focusing on calorie intake and hydration as core features.
- The wearable is positioned as a comprehensive lifestyle device, not solely a fitness tracker.
- Partnerships with healthcare providers and potential collaborations with insurance companies are in development.
- The device has applications for general wellness, athlete performance, pregnancy monitoring, and oncology care.
User Experience and Feedback
- Positive feedback highlights the passive, always-on tracking for continuous lifestyle benefits.
- Users cite improved awareness of nutrition, hydration, and stress, aiding weight management and athletic training.
- Historical data and upcoming social features are available via the companion app and web portal.
Product Release and Pricing
- GoBe 2 will launch on Healbe’s website in late February, with later expansion to retail and partnerships.
- Price is set at $179, with pre-order discounts available ($150).
- Initial color offering is black, with white and more colors planned.
CES and Industry Reception
- GoBe 2 received strong interest at CES and other tech expos, with attendees impressed by its feature set.
- Comparison frequently made to other fitness trackers, with GoBe 2 offering broader health metrics.
Social Media Contest and Listener Engagement
- Weekly social media contest offers Logitech products to participating listeners.
- This week’s winner: Bridget Leche Moffett.
- Upcoming contest will be held on Twitter.
Computer and Technology News Highlights
- Samsung Note 7’s battery failures attributed to design and manufacturing flaws.
- Tesla’s use of Autopilot reduced crash rates by 40% according to NHTSA.
- GMO apples designed not to brown will soon be available in stores.
Action Items
- Late February – Healbe Team: Launch GoBe 2 on the Healbe website.
- Next Friday – Computer America Team: Announce next social media contest winner (Twitter-based).
Recommendations
- Use GoBe 2 with the smartphone app for full functionality and insights.
- Monitor Healbe announcements for upcoming partnerships and additional features.