Apple Watch Series 4 isn’t the only wearable that offers on-demand electrocardiograms (ECGs) anymore.
Withings’ new Move ECG is the first analog watch that delivers the same functionality — and for a lot less. It takes less than 30 seconds, can help detect atrial fibrillation (AFib), and syncs all the data to your phone so that you can share it with your doctor.
Apple Watch became the first device you could buy over the counter that’s capable of performing an ECG anytime, anywhere, with no additional hardware required. It’s a groundbreaking achievement — one that Apple believes will save lives — but it’s not exclusive to Apple anymore.
The Withings Move ECG can do the same, and it has a number of advantages over its more expensive rival.
Move ECG doesn’t look like a smartwatch
The Move ECG, just like Withings’ popular Activité wearables, is an analog watch. It’s powered by a watch battery that lasts up to a year, with no need for charging. It’s ideal for those who don’t want a tiny screen strapped to their wrists.
What makes the Move ECG smart is that it does everything a fitness tracker does — as well as on-demand ECGs. You can use it to monitor your heart health with discreet and simple readings that take under 30 seconds.
ECG functionality is enabled by three electrodes. Two are integrated into the body of the watch, while the other is housed within the stainless steel bezel that surrounds its glass. When you touch both sides of the bezel, an ECG begins.
When the Move ECG vibrates, the reading is complete, and all the data is synced to the Health Mate app on your iPhone. Here’s where you’ll find out whether you have a normal heart rhythm, or whether there are signs of AFib.
Move ECG does a whole lot more
Your data can then be shared with a doctor or healthcare professional if necessary, which could help assist with a diagnosis and prevention, Withings says. And that’s not all the Move ECG is good for.
You can also use the watch to track your workouts, calories burned, and more — and it will automatically detect activities like running, cycling, and swimming. A sub-dial shows you how many steps you’ve taken each day.
The Move ECG also monitors your sleep and offers a Smart Wake-up feature that uses vibration alarms to wake you up at the most optimal time during your sleep cycle.
You’ll be able to buy the Move ECG for just $129.95 when it goes on sale in Q2 2019. It will be available in black or white, with a variety of wristband colors to choose from. A more affordable Move watch, which offers all of the above except ECG recording, will also be available for $69.95.
