Apple Watch: ECG In Australia

Ok, it’s now 04 July 2020.

So, when will ECG be released in Australia.

I upgraded my Apple Watch specifically to get ECG, promised by Apple at that time.

Who is responsible in the Medical profession here for this absurd level of procrastination, please tell me...

Apple Watch

Posted on Jul 3, 2020 5:16 PM

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Posted on Feb 3, 2021 11:43 AM

Given the registration hasn't occurred the issue is hardly solved!

Interesting that Apple doesn't seem to be able to negotiate the relatively easy TGA registration process, especially since there exists what is known as a Global Medical Device Nomenclature code (recognised by the TGA) that covers the hardware and another that covers the software! Would hate to think it is just laziness on Apple's part or that they won't provide any details to TGA, which to be frank is usually less than the US and the same as the UK and EU.


For information, the relevant codes are below. Registration takes less than a day to complete the form and usually an answer is received within a couple of days.

Hardware

Name

Wearable multiple physiological parameter recorder

Definition

An electrically-powered, wearable device (e.g., wristband, watch, finger probe, head-worn sensor) designed to continuously or intermittently measure and record multiple physiological parameters [e.g., heart rate, respiration rate, electrocardiograph, haemoglobin oxygen saturation (Sp02), routine body movement] using one or more technologies [e.g., photoplethysmography (PPG), reflectance pulse oximetry, electrocardiography, accelerometry). The data is typically transferred to a local application (e.g., smartphone) or central database for analysis, which might include evaluation of lifestyle factors (e.g., energy expenditure, activity level, sleep patterns).


Software


Name

Smartphone camera home cardiovascular monitoring application software


Definition


A software program designed for use in a smartphone/watch with a built-in camera to periodically measure, via transcutaneous optical reading, and display cardiovascular parameters (e.g., pulse wave, heart rate variability, SpO2, blood pressure, LVEDP) for assessment of cardiovascular function to assist diagnosis of disease (e.g., arrythmia, cardiac autonomic neuropathy); it may also be used to provide general lifestyle/fitness advice or during a controlled Valsalva manoeuvre to facilitate cardioversion of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). This is a home-use device which may allow for remote communication of data with a clinician; it may in addition be used in a clinical setting.

425 replies

Dec 1, 2020 2:44 AM in response to MrsJones2005

That isn't what you boasted. You said the Withings watch's ECG was superior.


If you don't have an Watch where the ECG actually functions, you're just spouting BS through your hat.


The ECG on my watch functions and it works fine. But 1) I don't have a Withings watch to compare and 2) even if I did, the Withings watch in the US doesn't have ECG functionality. But just because the watch does and the Withings watch doesn't, wouldn't mean the Watch has superior technology. Only a fool would make such a silly claim!

Dec 1, 2020 1:16 PM in response to Dah•veed

I disagree. Functionality is superior to no functionality. Try to stop bullying me and calling me names and take a moment to see things from my point of view. Imagine the ECG and irregular heartbeat functions were not available to you. Surely you’d feel disappointed, especially when there are other watch brands available in your country that do have these functions.

Dec 1, 2020 2:02 PM in response to deggie

Deggie,


You need to read what I have posted a little more carefully and you will find...


  • your advice to “vote with my wallet” is irrelevant. I already have the watch, I am happy with it.
  • Your advice to “change brands” is therefore also irrelevant


Also, based on what has been posted here previously and reports in the media by journalists is seems that Apple has done nothing to get it approved and, if that it so, it really is not good enough.


Dec 1, 2020 3:58 PM in response to IdrisSeabright

At least the Apple Watch can provide a high heart rate notification when you read the forum :)

ECG is a nice to have and I bought the watch knowing there is no clear outline on its release.


All of the current heart rate and fitness functions provide a pragmatic outcome for me and I don’t believe we need to carry on with any negative remarks.


I don’t believe Apple monitors these forums to change the course of their ECG approval effort's. Please don’t attack each other unnecessarily. It’s not worth it.



Dec 2, 2020 8:35 AM in response to Mystic Cheese

Mystic Cheese wrote:

All of the current heart rate and fitness functions provide a pragmatic outcome for me and I don’t believe we need to carry on with any negative remarks.

The Hosts will remove or edit any posts that do not conform to the Terms of Use. Beyond that, people are free to post as they see fit, even if that involves strenuous disagreement

I don’t believe Apple monitors these forums to change the course of their ECG approval effort's.

No, as has been stated repeatedly, Apple does not read these threads for suggestions. If you want Apple to know your thoughts on the matter, use the feedback link.


Product Feedback - Apple


Dec 7, 2020 1:16 PM in response to Robert J McInnes

I am woohoo very disappointed. I have a heart murmur and bought the series 6 to help monitor my heart. Now I find ecg is not available hear. This is false advertising apple. Please request approval so we can get it. Also have problem with sleeping app. My old fitbit monitored sleep cycles. I can't seem to get this up on apple 6. Can someone tell me if it's available and how? Otherwise like most components except battery.., shocking.

Dec 9, 2020 6:51 PM in response to BobHarris

How do you know you will be rejected unless you do apply? Other watches monitor heart rate, why can’t you? Is it because you’re using wording such as “ecg?” Can you change this wording so Australian people can use all functions also? In as far as advertising, your ads mentions ecg monitoring. It should also state that this feature is not available in Australia. Can you answer question about sleep cycles ?

Dec 30, 2020 7:20 PM in response to Robert J McInnes

I know that I am the most loyal Apple customer on the planet. I have everything and buy new every time there is a new release. Macbook Pro, Macbook Air, iPad Pro, iPhone 12 Pro, Apple One, Apple 4k TV x 2, three Apple Watches, iMac, AirPods Pro x 2 and AirPods.... This one issue with ECG is extremely frustrating and I have been very patient. Like many consumers, I vote with my feet. I moved all my banking, loans and credit cards purely because my bank didn't offer Apple Pay. I did the same with my network provider when they didn't offer unlimited internet. And now, I am actually considering moving away from Apple over this one issue.


After spending over $30k on apple products in the last 6 years, I am about to move away purely because of this one rediculous issue!

The fact that you misled me to purchase the new watch and now I can't use it for ECG, the one feature I wanted, is evidence that you don't care. You don't even care enough to apply to the TGA for approval. I've had enough. Goodbye Apple and back to Microsoft and Samsung I will go. I will migrate all my products, services and eco-system and enjoy the journey of learning a new Microsoft / Samsung ecosystem. You've taken me forgranted and I've had enough...


Now multiply that by ...... more consumers in Australia you've mistreated, and you start to get the idea. It's just a matter of time, especially if I, the most loyal Apple customer on the planet, is now moving away from you.

Dec 31, 2020 8:23 AM in response to SamoAt18

Yes. They have moderators here the ensure that the Terms of Use are followed and the have Specialists that respond to posts that have gone unanswered for 12 - 24 hours. Once in a very blue moon an engineer may reach out to someone participating in a complex thread regarding a technical problem. Note, TECHNICAL problem. But Apple management and executives who are involved in getting approval for the Apple Watch do not participate here. Why would they? What would reading this thread do to assist them?

Dec 31, 2020 1:51 PM in response to SamoAt18

SamoAt18 wrote:

1. Apple may respond to questions but does not formally provide technical support on the Site..

This is from Terms & Conditions.
It suggests Apple does monitor the discussions.

Thats been the ways these threads are handled for the past 3 years. Not once did an exec respond or contact any users. Perhaps you may find the occasional 'Community Specialist' but these lvl 10s probably spend more time around these forums than the moderators themselves. If they said they haven't seen one, i'd bet my money they haven't.


Your ‘proof’ of no Apple Execs on the site is not proof at all. Your response is a classic cop out of “ah ha - I know something you don’t.”

There ain't proof that executives are here either.

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Apple Watch: ECG In Australia

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