Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification function was FDA-approved today. The Galaxy Watch’s Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification feature detect atrial fibrillation-like heart rhythms.
The Galaxy Watch’s BioActive Sensor will detect abnormal heart rhythms when the Samsung Health Monitor app is engaged. In addition, the wristwatch will alert the user to conduct an ECG if a particular number of consecutive measures are abnormal, indicating possible AFib activity.
The newly announced One UI 5 Watch will bring the Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification function to the Galaxy Watch later this year, then to prior iterations. Since 2018, Apple smartwatches have had uneven rhythm notifications.
“We’re excited to announce that Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification, designed to help millions of people around the world who may not be aware of a potential heart risk, has been cleared by the FDA,” said Samsung Electronics vice president and head of the Digital Health Team Hon Pak in a press release. “This is another example of how Samsung prioritizes proactive safety solutions and helps users understand their cardiovascular and overall health.”
Samsung states that the function is not designed to notify on every incident of abnormal rhythm suggesting AFib. The IT giant adds that no notice does not mean any disease process. Users under 22 or with other arrhythmias cannot utilize the function.
The Galaxy Watch’s BioActive Sensor health functions, including on-demand ECG recording and HR Alert for unusually high or low heart rates, will include Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification.