OffbeatApple Watch 4’s ECG heart monitor feature is live, here’s how to use it

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One of the biggest upgrades to the Apple Watch Series 4 from its predecessor is its ability to record an electrocardiogram and detect issues with how the user’s heart is functioning. The company’s FDA-approved feature is now live for users in the US.

The device can detect irregularities in your heartbeat, which can point to critical conditions like atrial fibrillation that may result in a stroke. If your Watch classifies your rhythm as a high heart rate or atrial fibrillation, you’ll want to talk to your doctor.

Apple Watch ECG will arrive in next WatchOS update, says report

The current beta of WatchOS, version 5.1.2, looks like it will deliver support for the ECG/EKG sensor that Apple touted when it announced the Apple Watch Series 4 in September. require(["medianetNativeAdOnArticle"], function (medianetNativeAdOnArticle) { medianetNativeAdOnArticle.getMedianetNativeAds(true); }); MacRumors reportedly got its hands on an Apple in-store training document, which indicated that the app needed to work with the sensor data is in the next version of the operating system, which went into beta in mid-November. The capability will initially roll out in the US.

The Apple Watch Series 4 ' s ECG feature can detect issues with how the user' s heart is functioning. However, it ’ s worth noting that the Watch only records a basic single-lead ECG , and so can’t detect a stroke, heart attack or other heart conditions like the 12-lead ECGs taken at a doctor’ s

Apple Watch Series 4 features ECG on your wrist, low and high heart rate notifications, fall detection, Emergency SOS, and new Breathe watch faces. Apple Watch Series 4 inspires you to live a healthier life by helping you manage everything from everyday stress to calories burned.

However, it’s worth noting that the Watch only records a basic single-lead ECG, and so can’t detect a stroke, heart attack or other heart conditions like the 12-lead ECGs taken at a doctor’s office.

If you’re using a Watch Series 4 in the US, here’s how you can take an ECG:

• Ensure your device is updated to watchOS 5.1.2, and paired with an iPhone 5s or later with iOS 12.1.1 on board.
• Set up the ECG app by opening Apple Health on your device and following the on-screen instructions. A prompt should show up automatically, but if you don’t see it, head to Health Data > Heart > Electrocardiogram (ECG).
• Wear your Watch 4 with a snug fit on the wrist you’ve specified in the Apple Watch app (you can find or change this in the Apple Watch app; tap the My Watch tab, then head to General > Watch Orientation).
• Launch the ECG app on your Watch.
• Rest your arms comfortably on a table, or in your lap.

• Hold your finger on the Digital Crown, without pressing down, for 30 seconds. You’ll then see your results and any symptoms that the device detects.

  Tap Save to record your symptoms.

• To review your ECG, open the Health app on your iPhone, an head to the Health Data tab. Then, tap Heart > Electrocardiogram (ECG), and tap the ECG. You’ll find an option to export a PDF of it, which you can share with your doctor.