Aura Strap 2 for Apple Watch will monitor hydration and your body fat percentage

The Aura Strap 2 collects BIA data using electrodes

Aura is a health and fitness company that makes an Apple Watch accessory called the Aura Strap, which is now in its second iteration. The new band collects more data in a smaller package that uses the better Bluetooth BLE 4.2+ standard.

Unlike Apple Watch, the Aura Strap 2 isn't performing constant analysis or health data collection. The sensors in the Aura Strap 2 collect information using bioelectrical impedance analysis by completing a circuit between electrodes and the user's body.

A scan is initiated by opening the Aura app on the Apple Watch. The user places a palm against the sensors on the band for 30 seconds. Aura says the collected data is 95% accurate when compared to the industry standard.

The band connects via Bluetooth BLE. 4.2+ and works with any Apple Watch Series 3 and newer model. The sensors are made with surgical stainless steel and enclosed in a rubber wrist band. The Aura Strap 2 uses cell batteries that last about 6 months.

Data collected by the Aura app is synced with the Apple Health app and Apple Watch data. This information is then used by the Aura Plus service to provide analytics and monthly reports.

Aura Plus also provides personalized selections of exercise videos and a chat service with fitness trainers. Six months is included free with the purchase of the Aura Strap 2, then it costs $9.99 per month or $79.99 per year.

The Aura Strap 2 is available from Aura's website for $149.