Galaxy Watch 3 and Galaxy Watch Active 2 users in the US can take electrocardiogram (ECG) readings starting today through the Samsung Health Monitor app. Samsung said in early August the feature was coming to the devices after it received FDA approval.
Previously limited to South Korea, the app now lets users in the US monitor their heart rhythm for irregularities and check for atrial fibrillation (Afib). You’ll be able to use it yourself in the “ECG Monitor” app, where Samsung says readings will be accessible through the Health Monitor app when your watch is connected to a Samsung Galaxy-branded phone. Samsung notes that it’s not intended for use by people under 22 years old.
To take a reading in the app, the smartwatch will ask you to first make sure that it’s fastened snugly to your wrist, then you hold a finger to the hardware button near where 2 o’clock would be on its watchface. As can be seen in the photo below, the app makes it clear that it isn’t checking for heart attacks, so don’t rely on the app if you feel like your life is at risk.
The Galaxy Watch 3 has a string of other health-focused features, some of which have made their way to the Galaxy Watch Active 2. Apple added a similar ECG function to Watch Series 4 in 2018.
