YourOwnWeigh Open-Source Project Offers Alternative Data Sync for Withings Scales

An open-source software project named YourOwnWeigh (YOW) has been released to help users sync their Withings smart scales to local data stores or services like Apple Health and Google Health without relying on official subscription services or cloud infrastructure.

Released on October 29, the project provides components designed to replace Withings as the data synchronization API. It allows owners to manage device configurations, users, and readings independently. According to the release documentation, the system can be hosted on a free CloudFlare account or run locally using alternative setups.

Core Components and Requirements

The software package consists of several main parts:

• Firmware Patches: Custom modifications for selected scale models.
• Python Bridge App: A local application that handles firmware updates and requires Bluetooth proximity to the scales.
• Web Application: A management interface handling device configurations, users, and weight readings, acting as the primary replacement for the Withings API.
• Automation Scripts: Shortcuts to facilitate data transfer into platforms like Apple Health.

Setup options include deploying a CloudFlare worker utilizing D1 storage, or running the server locally via Docker or a reverse proxy like Caddy to handle required ports (80 or 443).

Practical Implications and Risks

While the project aims to bypass subscription fees and allow direct data ownership, the author notes that the software is provided as-is without guarantees, and the repository is described as a work in progress. Modifying scale firmware carries inherent technical risks:

• Firmware Overwrites: The project downloads official firmware from Withings servers and applies local patches before flashing. Devices typically feature two firmware slots, writing updates to the lower version slot to preserve a fallback option.
• Potential Recovery Needs: A failed or interrupted firmware write could potentially disrupt Bluetooth functionality, requiring hardware recovery via a UART connection.
• Operating System Limits: The web app supports all operating systems, but the Python bridge currently is limited to macOS and Linux, with Windows support still pending.

Verification and Community Involvement

Users can verify whether a scale is running the alternative firmware by removing and reinserting a battery; stock firmware typically displays a greeting, whereas the alternative firmware displays a smiley face. The creator has invited community contributions for tasks such as adding Windows support, testing additional scale models, and maintaining the repository.

*Disclaimer: Withings is a registered trademark of Withings SA. This independent project has no affiliation with or endorsement from Withings.*