Certian models of the Apple Watch include a feature called an electrocardiogram (ECG) which allow you to monitor your heart rhythm and detect irregularities. It’s a convenient way to keep track of your heart health because the ECG is right on your wrist. The ECG on the Apple Watch works like a single-lead reading, which can give you valuable information about your heart health, such as detecting signs of atrial fibrillation, a serious form of irregular heart rhythm. While it’s not as comprehensive as the ECG used in medical facilities, which looks at the heart from many angles, it’s still a useful tool for keeping an eye on your heart health.
Apple Watch Models with Built-in Electrocardiograms (ECG)
The Apple Watch has revolutionized personal health monitoring, and one of its most impressive features is the ability to take an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). Let’s explore which Apple Watch models offer this life-saving functionality.
Apple Watch Models with ECG Capability
| Apple Watch Series | ECG Functionality |
|---|---|
| Series 4 | Yes |
| Series 5 | Yes |
| Series 6 | Yes |
| Series 7 | Yes |
| Series 8 | Yes |
| Series 9 | Yes |
| Series 10 | Yes |
| Apple Watch SE (1st gen) | No |
| Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) | No |
| Apple Watch Ultra | Yes |
| Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Yes |
Note: While the Apple Watch SE models do not have the ECG app, they still offer heart rate monitoring and other valuable health features.
How Does the Apple Watch ECG Work?
The Apple Watch uses a combination of electrical and optical heart sensors to detect your heart’s rhythm. It measures the electrical signals across your wrist, generating an ECG waveform similar to a single-lead electrocardiogram.
The Importance of ECG on Your Wrist
An ECG can detect irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation (AFib), which can increase the risk of stroke. With the Apple Watch ECG, you can monitor your heart health conveniently and share results with your doctor.
Additional Notes
- The ECG app is available in many countries but may not be available in all regions.
- The Apple Watch ECG is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for any heart-related concerns.
Staying Heart-Healthy with Your Apple Watch
Remember, the Apple Watch ECG is a valuable tool for heart health monitoring. Combining this with a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in protecting your heart.
Key Takeaways
- ECG apps in Apple Watches provide health monitoring on the wrist.
- Starting with Series 4, Apple Watches include ECG functionality.
- They alert users to potential heart rhythm irregularities.
Features that Can Save Your Life
Apple Watches have a range of impressive health features. One of the most important is the ECG (electrocardiogram) functionality. An ECG measures your heart’s electrical activity. It can help doctors find potentially serious heart conditions.
What is an ECG?
An ECG checks your heart rhythm and electrical activity. The sensors in an ECG can spot different conditions, including:
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib), which is an irregular and often very fast heart rate
- Heart attacks
- Other heart problems
Which Apple Watches have ECG functionality?
Apple included the ECG feature starting with the Apple Watch Series 4. All Apple Watches made since have this function. Here’s a handy table:
| Apple Watch Model | ECG Capability |
|---|---|
| Series 4 | Yes |
| Series 5 | Yes |
| Series 6 | Yes |
| SE / SE2 | No |
| Series 7 | Yes |
| Series 8 | Yes |
| Ultra | Yes |
| Series 9 | Yes |
| Ultra 2 | Yes |
| Series 10 | Yes |
How to take an ECG on your Apple Watch
Here’s how to take an ECG using an Apple Watch with the feature:
- Make sure your Apple Watch is snug, but not too tight, on your wrist.
- Open the ECG app on your Apple Watch.
- Hold your finger on the Digital Crown for around 30 seconds.
- You’ll see your results on your watch, and a copy is stored in the Health app on your iPhone.
Important: The Apple Watch ECG app is a great tool, but it’s not the same as getting an ECG at a doctor’s office. Talk to your doctor if the app reports anything unusual or if you have any concerns about your heart.
Smart Watches & Devices That Support ECG
| Device Name | Manufacturer | ECG Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch Series 4 and later | Apple | Yes |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch4 and later | Samsung | Yes |
| Fitbit Sense and Sense 2 | Fitbit | Yes |
| KardiaMobile 6L | AliveCor | Yes |
| Omron Complete Wireless Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor with EKG | Omron | Yes |
| AliveCor KardiaMobile | AliveCor | Yes |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 | Samsung | Yes |
| Fitbit Charge 5 | Fitbit | Yes |
| Apple Watch SE | Apple | Yes |
| Garmin Venu 2 | Garmin | Yes |
| Withings ScanWatch Horizon | Withings | Yes |
| Polar Ignite 2 | Polar | Yes |
| Huawei Watch GT 3 Pro | Huawei | Yes |
| Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS | Mobvoi | Yes |
| Fossil Gen 6 Smartwatch | Fossil | Yes |
Understanding ECG and Its Importance in Wearables
Electrocardiogram technology in wearables allows users to monitor their heart health. The addition of this feature enhances the capability of devices like the Apple Watch to detect potential heart issues.
What Is an ECG?
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It shows how the heart beats and can detect irregular rhythms. The ECG feature in wearables, such as the Apple Watch Series 4 and later models, offers users the opportunity to monitor their heart health promptly.
The Science Behind ECG Technology
ECG technology in wearables operates by analyzing the heart’s electrical signals. These signals are important for diagnosing conditions like atrial fibrillation, which can increase the risk of stroke. The FDA has cleared ECG apps in wearables like the Apple Watch, meaning they meet the criteria for accuracy and safety.
Health Monitoring on Your Wrist
Wearables with ECG functionality make tracking heart health convenient. They provide irregular rhythm notifications and can help detect signs of atrial fibrillation. While these features do not replace professional medical devices, they serve as useful tools for users to monitor heart health in real-time. The ECG app on the Apple Watch, for example, produces an ECG similar to a single-lead ECG.
Apple Watch Models with ECG Functionality
Apple Watch introduced ECG functionality starting with the Series 4 model. This feature allows users to monitor their heart health more closely.
Apple Watch Series 4 and Beyond
Apple introduced the ECG app with the Series 4. This feature has been a part of all subsequent models. The ECG app works with a sensor on the back of the watch and the Digital Crown. To use it, you start the app and then hold your finger on the crown for 30 seconds.
Navigating the Health Features Across Different Models
From Series 4 onwards, all Apple Watches support the ECG app. They integrate with the Health app on your iPhone to review your heart rate data. Data accuracy in these readings is critical for reliable health monitoring.
Comparison of ECG Capabilities
- Series 4: Introduced ECG with basic functionality.
- Series 5 and later: Improved ECG with additional health and fitness features.
- Apple Watch SE: Offers heart rate notifications but lacks the ECG app.
- Apple Watch Ultra: Contains ECG app and enhanced durability for outdoor activities.
The ECG feature can detect signs of atrial fibrillation, a serious form of irregular heart rhythm. It’s important to consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice and analysis of ECG readings. The watch alerts users to high or low heart rates and irregular rhythms that may need medical attention. This feature is not a replacement for regular medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section answers common queries about the ECG feature in Apple Watches, explaining how to use it, its accuracy, and the available models with this functionality.
How do I use the ECG functionality on my Apple Watch?
To use the ECG app, open it on your Apple Watch Series 4 or later. Rest your arm on a flat surface, touch the Digital Crown, and wait for the recording to complete.
Can the Apple Watch detect atrial fibrillation with its ECG feature?
Yes, the Apple Watch ECG app can detect signs of atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heart rhythm.
What is the accuracy of the ECG app in Apple Watches?
The ECG app is designed to be similar to a single-lead ECG and can provide valuable data about heart rhythms but is not as comprehensive as a standard 12-lead ECG performed by a medical professional.
Which models of the Apple Watch come with an ECG monitor?
ECG monitoring started with the Apple Watch Series 4 and continues in Series 5, 6, 7, and later models, including the Apple Watch Ultra.
Do newer models of the Apple Watch improve ECG features over previous versions?
Newer Apple Watch models maintain ECG functionality and may include incremental improvements, though the core feature works similarly across recent models.
Is the ECG feature available on the Apple Watch SE?
No, the ECG feature is not available on the Apple Watch SE. It is only included in the Series 4 and later mainline models.
