Withings BPM Core is ready to cut down those visits to the doctors

Withings has finally launched its BPM Core smart blood pressure monitor after first unveiling the connected health device back in January this year.

The new monitor, which has been given the necessary EU approval, now offers more ways to track your cardiovascular health than its previous devices. It's also joined by the BPM Connect, the blood pressure monitor successor to the Withings BPM.

The BPM Core features a traditional arm cuff design and has the ability to measure blood pressure to a clinical grade level. In addition to blood pressure, it will now take ECG (electrocardiogram) readings and can be used to identify serious heart health conditions such as atrial fibrillation.

Essential reading: ECG on wearables explained

Another new feature is the digital stethoscope that Withings says can help provide early detection of valvular heart disease. That relates to damage to one of the four heart valves, which could require surgical intervention.

The sensor-packed device, which also includes a digital microphone, works by the user placing the cuff on the upper arm and pushing the measurement button. It will then take all three measurements within 90 seconds and send the data to the Withings Health Mate app.

Blood pressure readings are displayed on the device itself with cooler-coded feedback indicating whether blood pressure is normal, moderate or too high. For ECG readings, you’ll need to place your other hand on the stainless steel sensors for twenty seconds. The digital stethoscope requires placing the sensor on the chest with the device needing twenty seconds to listen and evaluate your heart.

The BPM Core will work with iOS and Android smartphones and has a rechargeable battery that’s good enough for 100s of measurements off a single charge. All of the data from the Withings BPM Core including audio recordings of the heart can be shared with your doctor or a medical professional.

Joining the Core is the BPM Connect, which as mentioned is an updated version of the Withings BPM. it now features an LED display, so you no longer need your phone nearby to review readings. Data can now be synced to the Withings Health Mate over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which wasn't possible on its predecessor. It has been FDA cleared and EU compliant to offer those accurate heart rate and blood pressure readings.

The Withings BPM Core is available now through the Withings website and Apple's online and retail stores in Europe priced at £249.95. Those eager to use it in the US though will have to wait until it's been given FDA clearance. If that all goes smoothly, it should arrive later this year. The Withings BPM Connect is also now on sale in both the US and the UK for .