Garmin ECG expanded into key regions – Australia and EU
Garmin latest press release announced that its ECG App is now available in the EU and Australia, compatible with smartwatches like the Venu 3 and Fenix 8 Series. This feature allows users to record heart rhythms and detect Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), expanding Garmin’s health monitoring capabilities. Blogger the5krunner.com, adds further context to the history and details behind this announcement.
Why Now?
Regulatory approval was required in the EU and Australia despite prior clearance in the US. Some users had previously bypassed restrictions by setting their devices to US locations.
Source Garmin.com
A Milestone in Health Monitoring
The ECG App marks Garmin’s first medical-grade feature, providing critical AFib detection for early intervention. Symptoms of AFib are often sporadic, making detection during routine check-ups challenging. The app lets users record ECG readings on demand and share results with healthcare providers.
Currently supported devices include the Fenix 8, Enduro 3, Venu 3, and more. However, watches like the Instinct 3 won’t receive this feature due to hardware limitations. As regional approvals progress, Garmin plans to extend ECG compatibility to future devices like the Forerunner 975 and Venu SQ3.
Brief History
Garmin introduced ECG functionality in early 2023 with the Venu 2 Plus, starting in the US after FDA approval. This process highlighted the challenges of simultaneous regulatory clearance across multiple regions. With approvals now secured for the EU and Australia, Garmin continues to expand its global presence, though competitors remain ahead in some areas.
How It Works
The ECG App uses smartwatch sensors to measure electrical heart activity. In 30 seconds, users can record a reading, view results on the watch, and sync data to the Garmin Connect app for detailed reports.
Setup & Usage
- Setup: Update the Garmin Connect app and watch software. Navigate to Set Up ECG App in Garmin Connect and follow the prompts.
- Recording: Wear the watch above the wrist bones, open the ECG App, rest your arm, and place two fingers on the watch bezel for 30 seconds.
- Results: View results on the watch or in the Health Stats > ECG section of Garmin Connect.
Troubleshooting
- App Not Activating: Confirm device and region compatibility via Garmin.com/ECG.
- Missing App: Complete setup in Garmin Connect and check the watch menu.
- Recording Issues: Ensure a snug watch fit, minimise movement, and avoid interference.
- Inverted Waveforms: Verify wrist settings in your Garmin profile.
As Garmin expands its ECG capabilities, it empowers users to take control of their heart health, reinforcing its position as a leader in health and fitness wearables.