watchOS 5.1.2 to enable ECG App on Apple Watch Series 4 in the United States
Apple’s next update to watchOS may finally enable the Apple-designed ECG app for wearers of the Apple Watch Series 4 in the United States, allowing users to take an electrocardiogram to show whether your heart rhythm indicates signs of atrial fibrillation, a serious form of irregular heart rhythm, or a normal sinus rhythm.
According to MacRumors who claim to have obtained an internal Apple Store training document, Apple is briefing staff ahead of the rollout of the app in the next update to watchOS, watchOS 5.1.2, although no specific release date was shared.
Within the document, Apple tells employees that the ECG app coming to Apple Watch Series 4 is “not intended to be a diagnostic device or to replace traditional methods of diagnosis,” and that customers should be encouraged to seek professional medical advice should their wearable warn them of any health complications.
A report published in September suggests it may take years for the ECG feature to be rolled out in the UK, with the British Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) saying Apple may be forced to undertake new clinical investigations which could “potentially add years onto the CE marking process” that is required for all new ECG devices amongst others.
Taking an ECG on the Apple Watch Series 4 is a very simple process. Users will be able to take readings by holding their finger for thirty seconds on the Digital Crown while using the special Apple-designed ECG app that syncs data to the iPhone connected with the Apple Watch.