New Apple Watch adds heart tracking: here’s why we should welcome ECG for everyone

Research output: Contribution to specialist publicationArticle

Abstract

Leaked details of the new iPhone models were quickly relegated to second tier headlines after Apple’s latest product announcement. More people seem to be excited about the fact that the new Apple Watch will come with a built-in heart monitoring electrocardiogram (ECG) function.

An ECG is a simple test that can be used to check your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity, designed to detect any underlying issues. The Apple Watch 4 will be the first mainstream wearable gadget to integrate this kind of medical diagnostic technology. (Other devices such as the Fitbit typically measure blood flow by shining a light through the skin. This should be an exciting breakthrough, but Apple’s revelation has been met with a mixed reception.
Original languageEnglish
VolumeScience + Technology
Specialist publicationThe Conversation
Publication statusPublished - 18 Sept 2018

Bibliographical note

Heather May Morgan led a feasibility study (unfunded) in partnership with CloudTag Inc. (http://www.cloudtag.com/) in summer 2017, which used its Onitor Track (unpublished). She previously received funding for research into digital health from The Wellcome Trust through the University of Aberdeen’s Institutional Strategic Support Fund under Grant RG12724-13. Heather is presently an Apple Watch 3 user for research and life purposes.

Keywords

  • ECG
  • Medical Technology
  • Apple Watch
  • Smart Watch
  • Fitness Trackers
  • Digital healthcare
  • smart watches

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