Ambiorix’s Journey to a Connected ECG Prototype
Ambiorix, a medtech startup, had developed a cutting-edge wearable ECG (electrocardiogram) device – but there was a critical gap. The hardware could capture heart signals, yet no mobile app existed to visualize or interact with the data. With a major medtech conference only weeks away, this missing piece threatened to derail Ambiorix’s product demo. The stakes were high: without a live display of the ECG data, even the most innovative sensor would be a tough sell to conference audiences. This case study explores how Ambiorix, as the protagonist, partnered with Intent to transform that gap into a show-stopping connected prototype in time for the event.
Our Work
Technology
Start with the Essentials
Focusing first on core functionality (device connectivity and real-time data streaming) was key. By getting a simple end-to-end scenario working early (Phase 1), Ambiorix gained confidence in the solution and a working demo backbone, which reduced overall risk. It’s a reminder that when time is short, build the must-have features first, not the nice-to-haves.
Leverage the Right Technology
Choosing Flutter for app development proved invaluable. With a single codebase for both Android and iOS, development moved faster and consistency was assured across devices. Flutter’s performance also handled the demanding task of plotting an ECG waveform in real time without lag. Likewise, using Bluetooth Low Energy – a power-efficient wireless protocol – meant the wearable could stream continuously while preserving battery life. The lesson is that technology choices can make or break speed; here, the right tools accelerated delivery without sacrificing quality.
Tight Collaboration and Iteration
The Ambiorix-Intent partnership functioned as one team. Daily communication, quick feedback loops, and a clear phased plan kept everyone aligned on the goal. When a hiccup arose – for instance, a need to fine-tune the BLE data format – the teams addressed it jointly and promptly. This collaborative agility taught that working closely with the client (and client’s hardware engineers) as partners, not just as a service provider, leads to better outcomes. It also reinforced the value of iterative development: each phase delivered a tangible increment that could be tested and improved, rather than betting everything on a big final reveal.
Focus on the User Experience for Demos
Even for a prototype, user experience matters – especially in a demo setting where first impressions are everything. The second phase’s emphasis on an intuitive UI and clear data presentation was crucial for engaging the audience. Ambiorix learned that a well-thought-out presentation layer (like easy-to-read graphs and simple controls) can make a complex technology relatable to viewers. In other words, technical success alone isn’t enough; how you showcase it determines the impact.
