iATKOS | United Kingdom: Apple Releases watchOS 5.2 Enabling ECG Functionality in Europe and Hong Kong

Apple has released watchOS 5.2 for the Apple Watch. The firmware update lets users across Europe and Hong Kong take an ECG reading with the Apple Watch Series 4. The ECG app and irregular rhythm notification are now CE marked and cleared in the European Economic Area.

Part of the free watchOS 5.2 software update, the ECG app can capture heart rhythm on demand in a moment when users experience symptoms such as a rapid or skipped heart beat and help provide clinically important data to physicians. The irregular rhythm notification feature on Apple Watch occasionally checks heart rhythm in the background and sends a notification if an irregular heart rhythm that appears to be atrial fibrillation (AFib) is identified. The ECG app and irregular rhythm notification feature can alert users to signs of AFib. Left untreated, AFib is one of the leading conditions that can result in stroke, the second most common cause of death around the world.

“We’ve seen the ECG app and irregular rhythm notifications on Apple Watch have meaningful impact on our customers across the United States,” said Jeff Williams, Apple’s chief operating officer. “We are excited to bring these features to customers in Europe and Hong Kong, giving them access to empowering information about their heart health.”