Open-source tool sends data from two Withings scales to chosen servers
After Withings said new users would need a Withings Plus subscription to sync health data with third-party apps, developer Tom Anthony created YourOwnWeigh. The open-source project redirects data from some Withings scales to a server chosen by the user, allowing wireless syncing without the subscription.
The web app patches alternate firmware, transfers scale settings and user profiles, and downloads weigh-in data. Anthony uses Apple Shortcuts to import that data into Apple Health, while broader app support, including Google Health, is a community goal. For now, the project works with only two older Withings scale models and can run on a free Cloudflare account.
In short
- YourOwnWeigh redirects Withings scale data without a subscription.
- It currently supports two older scale models.
- Apple Health syncing uses a scheduled Shortcut.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
YourOwnWeigh offers owners of supported scales a way to keep using their devices with the services and servers they choose, without paying for a new subscription to access their own health data. Its open-source design also gives technically capable users more control and may encourage wider compatibility through community contributions.
The case against
Withings can argue that subscriptions help fund the ongoing development, security and support needed to sync health data with third-party services. The alternative is currently limited to two older models and requires users to install unofficial firmware and arrange their own data handling, which may be less convenient or dependable for people who prefer a supported service.
Explained simply
Withings makes connected scales that record weigh-ins and send the readings to online services. Those services can pass health data to other apps, such as Apple Health, so people can keep information from different devices together.
YourOwnWeigh is an open-source project created by developer Tom Anthony. Open-source software makes its code available for others to inspect and adapt; in this case, the tool changes how certain scales send data so it goes to a server chosen by the owner.
The project currently supports two older scale models, and its wider use depends on community contributions. The issue matters to people who want control over where their health data is stored and how it reaches other apps.
Americas Art Business Companies Culture Software Technology World
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by The Verge as “This open-source project lets you sync Withings data to other apps without a subscription”.