Apple is developing an EKG heart monitor for future Apple Watch models: Report

Apple is reportedly developing an advanced heart-monitoring feature for future versions of its Apple Watch, in an attempt to identify developing heart conditions, without having to visit the doctor.

According to a report by Bloomberg, the company is said to be testing the use of Apple Watch as an EKG with a future model. It would require the user to squeeze the outer edge of the Apple Watch with the opposite hand, at which point the device would send a minute electrical current through the person’s hand and across their chest to measure the electrical signals in the heart, and would in turn; detect any abnormalities like irregular heart rates.

At the moment, the Apple Watch includes a heart rate monitor, which uses photodiode sensors and LEDs. But with the introduction of EKG, users can expect a system with advanced sensors to predict future afflictions, rather than simply collect historical data about the body. The development process is ongoing and Apple may still decide not to include the technology in future products, the report added.

The company has been taking an active interest in heart health over the past few months. Last month, Apple launched a ResearchKit-based Apple Heart Study app in partnership with Stanford University's School of Medicine. The aim was to study if existing heart rate monitoring functionality on the Apple Watch can work accurately and detect irregular heart rhythms.

Recently, AliveCor’s 'Kardia Band' medical grade EKG analyzer for the Apple Watch received FDA approval. This band monitors a user’s heart rate at all times, whenever you press a finger to its onboard sensor.

IDC (International Data Corporation) expects the overall wearable market to go from shipping 113.2 million units this year to some 222.3 million in 2021. It expects smartwatch sales, led by Apple Watch, to grow from to 71.5 million by 2021, more than doubling from 31.6 million this year.