Natural Cycles launches wristband to replace thermometers for its FDA-cleared birth control app
Natural Cycles, the company behind a controversial FDA-approved birth control app, is replacing its thermometer with a bracelet that measures skin temperature, heart rate and movement during sleep. The newly launched bracelet costs $129.99 and syncs with the Natural Cycles app, which uses an algorithm to determine a person’s “daily fertility status.”
Users can already track their fertility by pairing an Apple Watch or Oura Ring with Natural Cycles, but the bracelet could be an option for users who don’t have either of those devices on hand. Although Natural Cycles also works with the new Samsung Galaxy smartwatches and the Galaxy Ring, it is intended for tracking periods and cycles based on temperature when used with these devices – not as a way to prevent or plan pregnancy.
Natural Cycles initially offered a basal thermometer with its annual plan (or available separately for $14.50) so users could take their temperature manually. Lauren Hanafin, spokesperson for Natural Cycles, says The edge that users can continue to use the thermometer if they currently own one. The FDA then gave Natural Cycles permission to collect data from third-party devices, like the Apple Watch and Oura Ring. Hanafin says the company received clearance from the FDA to begin using other wearable temperature tracking devices without requiring additional approval, allowing it to launch the new bracelet.
Privacy concerns surrounding period tracking apps have increased following the Supreme Court’s overturning decision. Roe v. Wadebut the Electronic Frontier Foundation notes that while users should review the security and privacy protections of the app they choose, they do not pose an “immediate threat” to abortion seekers. Natural Cycles claims to use pseudonymization and encryption to conceal your information, while its group only collects “necessary” data.
Natural Cycles first introduced its wristband to “screen” people as part of the launch of its perimenopause feature in October. The band supports Bluetooth 5.0 LE and offers up to 14 nights of battery life once fully charged via USB-C.
The Natural Cycles Band is available for purchase for $129.99 and is also included in the company’s annual plan for $149.99. Users who already have a Natural Cycles subscription can upgrade to the group for $99.99 for a limited time.
