Learn about the electrical activity and rhythm of your heart when you take ECG readings using Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 or Watch 3.
Samsung has announced the availability of software required for the Galaxy Watch Active 2 or Watch 3 to take ECG readings off your wrist. Considered as the "holy grail" of health features, the two smartwatches already have the hardware necessary for this specific feature, though the software became available only recently.
The Galaxy Watch Active 2, released in September of 2019, and the Galaxy Watch 3, released in August of 2020, are Samsung's answer to the popular Apple Watch series. More than just a timepiece, these smartwatches allow users to pair them with their mobile phones, as well as provide them with important information about the status of their health. Samsung said that the ECG Monitor feature is now officially part of the Samsung Health Monitor app. The company also revealed they have been waiting for approval of the feature since August of last year.
Samsung announced that starting September 23, users will have access to the on-demand electrocardiogram (ECG) feature, which include the ability to generate ECG readings, on their Galaxy Watch Active 2 and Galaxy Watch 3. The tool, which allows users to keep track of their heart rhythm for irregularities, recently received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Aside from monitoring heart rhythm, the ECG Monitor feature on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 and Galaxy Watch 3, which allow users to take ECG readings off their wrists, can also scan for signs of AFib or Atrial Fibrillation. AFib is a condition characterized by irregular heartbeats that may lead to heart failure, blood clots, stroke, and other heart-related issues.
To take ECG readings using the Galaxy Watch Active 2 or Galaxy Watch 3, users need to first "take their seats," tighten their smartwatches on their wrist, and let their arms rest on a flat surface. The smartwatch will then take an ECG reading and classify such as either Sinus Rhythm or AFib. Users can also enter into their watches relevant details like dizziness or fatigue, and after the completion of the reading, can also share a PDF file of the results with their doctors.
Aside from taking ECG readings using the Galaxy Watch Active 2 or Galaxy Watch 3, users can also track oxygen saturation on their Galaxy Watch 3. This feature can help you determine how well your respiratory system is transferring oxygen into your bloodstream. It also comes with an advanced sleep tracking feature that allows users to measure their vitals, breathing, as well as REM cycles throughout the night. It then uses Samsung's special algorithm to score your sleep or rest for the evening. Upon waking up, you can view a detailed summary of your rest and also receive some tips on how to wake up feeling refreshed and bright.
