When the Galaxy Watch Active 2 was launched, the ECG feature was one of the most interesting features. However, this feature was not available at the time of release due to the fact that it needed to be approved by the FDA and other government health authorities.
The feature was then said to be expected within Q1 of 2020. After that deadline was missed, Samsung had said that they needed extra time to make sure that the feature works as they intend it to.
Now, finally, the feature has been cleared. Whilst this may be good news, the ECG feature has only been cleared by South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). It’s a longer wait for those of us in different markets. However, South Koreans can finally take advantage of the newly approved feature when it gets released.
What does an ECG do?
An ECG is a sensor that is used to measure and analyses a users’ heart rhythm for irregularities. These irregularities could indicate AFib (Arial Fibrillation) which the user will be notified about. Blood pressure is also monitored. If it gets too low or high, the user will be notified.
With the very welcome arrival of the ECG feature, Samsung will be providing an updated version of the Samsung Health app. This update will enable the ECG and blood pressure monitoring within Q3 2020.
However, the company is not clear on whether the time frame is for all markets or if South Koreans will get the ECG feature straight away. However, Samsung does tell us how to use the ECG feature.
How to use the ECG Feature
For the ECG tracking to work, all you need to do is place your finger on the back/top button. You need to keep your forearm still and hold your finger there for 30 seconds. With the explanation – perhaps the feature is actually coming to South Korea soon.
One thing to note is that the availability of the feature in your market all depends on how fast Samsung can get it approved. As well as this, the current pandemic could mean that the approval of the feature may be delayed.