Google has filed to the FDA a new Fitbit heart rate tracking tool that might automatically alert users to potentially dangerous heart rate patterns.ECG monitoring is accessible on Fitbit's Charge 5 and Sense devices, making it one of just a few wearable tech firms to do so.Wearables can now detect atrial fibrillation (Afib), an abnormal heart rate rhythm that most people are unaware of yet is a significant cause of stroke in the United States.

However, just with the Apple Watch Series 7 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, an ECG reading must be manually taken using the built-in software and the case's EKG sensors. Using the PPG sensor, passive heart rate rhythm monitoring would check your heart rate rhythm continually as you go about your day.That might be a game-changer since it can detect random heart rate rhythm occurrences as they occur rather than relying on the user manually spot-checking.Google has now submitted the functionality to the FDA for approval, after which it will be available on devices. The new technology is meant to supplement, not replace, the ECG sensor.

It will advise you to perform a manual ECG spot check if it suspects you may have a heart rhythm problem. There is no set date for when the functionality will be authorized and released on devices. Unlike Fitbit's own ECG technology, which was immediately authorized by the FDA, this is new territory for wearables, so it may take some time.

Tags

Smart Watches

• Share on:
• WhatsApp
• Deel
• Tweet
• Pin it
• Messenger
• Email

---