In Japan, toilets are going high-tech — and now, they’re going health-conscious too.
TOTO, one of Japan’s most renowned bathroom appliance makers, has just unveiled its latest innovation: the Neorest LS-W / AS-W, a smart toilet that does more than flush. It analyzes your bowel movements and offers personalized health insights directly to your smartphone.
Yes, your toilet might soon know more about your gut than your doctor.
Analyzing Your Poop — Automatically
Equipped with advanced sensors and image recognition technology, the new Neorest monitors the color, shape, and volume of your stool. Based on this data, it classifies your output into one of seven categories:
- Too hard
- Ideal
- Loose
- Too little
- Too much
- Unusual color (e.g., black or red)
- Unidentifiable
These insights are sent to a connected app, which also offers diet and lifestyle recommendations. It’s a form of real-time “gut check” without the awkward doctor’s visit.
Why Is This Trending Now?
With Japan’s rapidly aging population and growing interest in preventive healthcare, devices that help detect early signs of illness (so-called “pre-disease” conditions) are gaining traction.
Since stools reflect your internal health but are often difficult to self-evaluate, a smart toilet like this brings objectivity and awareness into the most routine part of your day.
Gaining Attention Overseas
International media outlets, including The Times (UK), have highlighted this innovation as a unique fusion of Japanese lifestyle and cutting-edge technology.
In an age of wearables and smart homes, the idea of toilets providing health data feels both natural and revolutionary — especially coming from a country where washlet technology is already years ahead.
How Much Does It Cost?
The Neorest models are priced in the upper range, around ¥500,000 (approx. $3,400+), targeting premium users for now. However, TOTO is reportedly exploring collaborations with healthcare providers and insurers, hinting at broader adoption in the near future.
Final Thoughts
Japan’s toilets have long been a source of curiosity for the world. With this new health-focused evolution, they’re becoming personal wellness hubs.
Going to the bathroom might soon mean getting a daily health check — seamlessly, privately, and with the help of AI.
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