Kohler’s $599 Dekoda Toilet Camera Uses ML to Analyze Your Waste
Kohler has launched a new Kohler Health division, debuting with Dekoda — a $599 toilet-mounted camera and sensor system designed to turn the bathroom into a health data hub. Using machine learning and optical sensing, Dekoda analyzes what’s in the bowl to surface insights related to gut health, hydration, and potential blood detection. Results are delivered to a companion mobile app.
At launch, Dekoda supports iPhone, with an Android app in development. Early coverage indicates that a subscription is required (individual and family plans) for ongoing insights and features. Shipping is expected to begin shortly after the announcement.
- Price: $599, plus a subscription for extended features.
- Platform: iOS at launch; Android coming later.
- What it measures: Stool characteristics and related metrics for gut health and hydration; can flag the presence of blood.
- How it works: Optical sensors and ML analyze patterns (e.g., shape, consistency, frequency); some reports mention spectroscopy approaches.
- Privacy note: Kohler says the sensors only view inside the bowl, addressing common privacy concerns.
- Regulatory status: No FDA clearance information disclosed as of writing.
Context: Smart-bathroom health tracking is growing. Withings’ U-Scan urine analyzer launched previously at around $500, signaling demand for at-home biomarker monitoring. Dekoda differs by focusing on optical analysis in the bowl rather than replaceable cartridges.
More info and coverage:
PetaPixel ·
Android Police ·
Digital Camera World
As with any health tech, open questions remain: How accurate are the insights in real-world use? What controls do users have over data storage and sharing? And what features will roll out with the Android app and future updates?
Discussion: Would you add a smart sensor to your toilet for health insights, or is this a step too far for the connected home?