Apple Watch Series 4’s ECG App Now Available in Singapore With New Software Update
Updated: Aug 19, 2021
Apple’s ECG app has finally arrived in our sunny shores, packed with an Apple Watch Series 4 software update so that we can all monitor our heart health. Users will now be able to take an electrocardiogram (ECG) and see if there are any irregular rhythms that might require a doctor’s visit. The watch also allows for intermittent heart rate monitoring checks and will notify if an irregular heart rhythm that appears to be atrial fibrillation is spotted.
Apple’s app states that the Watch can’t detect heart attacks or other heart-related conditions, but there have been many cases where people are notified when they have heart rates lower than the norm, and discover that they have underlying conditions.
The watch uses electrodes built into the back crystal and digital crown of the Apple Watch to take an single- lead ECG which records heart rate and rhythm. After 30 seconds, the watch then notifies the user if the reading shows atrial fibrillation (irregular rhythm), sinus rhythm (heart beating in a uniform rhythm) or if the reading was inconclusive.
Having an easily accessible wearable like Apple Watch to detect heart rate, and now heart rhythm with the new ECG app, will go a long way in classifying and eventually managing atrial fibrillation. Dr. Julian Tan, Heart Specialist, Mount Elizabeth Hospital / Parkway East Hospital
I am personally excited for the app to be available, and I’m sure many sports enthusiasts will be making use of it as well! However, the update is only available on Apple Watch Series 4 and not the older Apple Watch series.
It is now available in Singapore through a software update.