ArrowArtboardCreated with Sketch.Title ChevronTitle ChevronIcon FacebookIcon LinkedinIcon Mail ContactPath LayerIcon MailPositive ArrowIcon Print
Technology

Apple Watch approved to monitor heartbeats for Japanese wearers

Alphabet, Samsung and Omron also offer wearable medical devices

With the Apple Watch EKG, the user can help track heart rhythms and look for signs of atrial fibrillation, (Photo by Rimi Inomata)

TOKYO -- The Japanese government has approved the Apple Watch installed with its electrocardiogram app as a medical device, heralding an era of advanced wearables that will not just function as fitness trackers but also serve broader medical purposes. 

The smartwatch from Apple is Japan's first EKG device marketed to consumers. Wearing the device allows for round-the-clock monitoring of the heart that could lead to the early detection of coronary diseases.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored Content This content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.

Nikkei Asian Review, now known as Nikkei Asia, will be the voice of the Asian Century.

Celebrate our next chapter
Free access for everyone - Sep. 30

Find out more