That’s how Roberto Gallart describes his health on the pivotal day his Galaxy Watch6 alerted him to a life-threatening heart condition. A single notification prompted him to seek help — a decision that ultimately saved his life.

Gallart’s story is one of many showing how Galaxy Watch goes beyond expectations — detecting hidden health risks, supporting preventive care and providing insights that can guide life-saving action when it matters most. Samsung Newsroom shares stories from users whose lives were saved thanks to Galaxy Watch.

Jordan: Irregular Heart Rhythm Feature Detects a Silent Heart Condition

Dr. Ahmad Sharadgah, a Galaxy Watch Ultra user in Jordan, felt perfectly healthy when his new smartwatch began sending multiple irregular heart rhythm notification (IHRN)¹ alerts. Despite having no symptoms, the repeated warnings convinced him to go to the hospital — a life-changing decision.

Doctors discovered advanced atherosclerosis,² a serious heart condition requiring immediate treatment. Without his smartwatch, the condition might have gone unnoticed.

“Thanks to the alerts from my watch, I was able to take action before it was too late,” he said. “Galaxy Watch Ultra not only saved my life but also spared my family from what could have been a devastating tragedy. I’m profoundly grateful.”

Brazil: ECG Feature Helps Detect a Hidden Heart Risk

Let’s return to Gallart, a regular at his local gym in Rio de Janeiro. One day, during his usual workout, a sudden pain shot through his chest.

Startled, he checked the electrocardiogram (ECG) feature³ on his Galaxy Watch6 and noticed four “Inconclusive heart rhythm” readings from that day.

Gallart rushed to the hospital, where doctors found one of his main coronary arteries completely blocked and the other two critically narrowed. Without immediate treatment, his life was at risk.

“I was on the verge of a heart attack and could have collapsed at any moment,” he said. “The ECG feature was instrumental in saving my life. Without its warning, I may not have sought help in time.”

Korea: Blood Oxygen Feature Assists in Mid-Flight Medical Emergency

On a flight from Las Vegas to Seoul, a passenger was found unconscious and unresponsive in his seat. Fortunately, Dr. Jongmo Seo, a medical professor at Seoul National University Hospital, was on board and able to help.

Medical equipment was limited at 30,000 feet, but assistance came from an unexpected source — a Galaxy Watch worn by a flight attendant.

Using Galaxy Watch’s blood oxygen (SpO2) feature,⁴ Dr. Seo monitored the passenger’s oxygen saturation and pulse in real time. Determining whether the patient’s brain was receiving enough oxygen was the top priority. Guided by the data, he administered emergency care until the passenger regained consciousness and stabilized.

“Without Galaxy Watch, my ability to respond would have been much more limited,” Dr. Seo said. “Having access to real-time data allowed me to guide the emergency response more effectively.”

Innovation Built on Trust and Everyday Health Insights

Every day, people like Gallart, Sharadgah and Dr. Seo use their Galaxy smartwatches to take charge of their well-being — tracking workouts, sleep, nutrition and more. Their trust in Galaxy Watch drives Samsung’s commitment to develop technology that is personal, powerful and there when people need it most.

“We aim to help more people live healthier lives through our technology,” said Jongmin Choi, Head of Health H/W R&D Group, Mobile eXperience, Samsung Electronics. “It’s deeply rewarding to know that Galaxy Watches are saving lives in critical moments. We’ll continue to create innovations that truly make a difference for people everywhere.”

1. The Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification feature monitors for irregular heart rhythms in the background while the Galaxy Watch is being worn. ︎
2. Atherosclerosis is a disease in which fats, cholesterol and other substances build up in and on the artery walls, restricting blood flow and potentially leading to serious complications. ︎
3. The electrocardiogram feature requires manual activation. Users must place a finger on the home button to record a 30-second reading. ︎
4. The blood oxygen feature uses an optical sensor to estimate blood oxygen levels when the smartwatch is worn snugly on the wrist and the user remains still. ︎

Samsung Electronics today announced that the Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification (IHRN) feature¹ of the Samsung Health Monitor app² has received FDA clearance. Together with the app’s existing on-demand Electrocardiogram (ECG) function,³ the IHRN feature proactively monitors heart rhythms suggestive of atrial fibrillation (AFib), right from their wrist.

“We’re excited to announce that Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification, designed to help millions of people around the world who may not be aware of a potential heart risk, has been cleared by the FDA,” said Hon Pak, Vice President and Head of the Digital Health Team, MX Business at Samsung Electronics. “This is yet another example of how Samsung prioritizes proactive safety solutions and enables users to receive a more holistic understanding of their cardiovascular and overall health.”

Cardiovascular disease remains one of the world’s leading causes of death and AFib — a type of arrhythmia — is widely considered a warning sign for major cardiovascular issues that can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular complications. Moreover, some of AFib cases are asymptomatic or even silent, leaving people unaware of their risk.

That’s why Galaxy Watch offers tools to help users better understand their heart health using the Samsung BioActive Sensor, including on-demand ECG recording and HR Alert function⁴ that detects abnormally high or low heart rates. The addition of the new IHRN feature enables Galaxy Watch users to monitor another aspect of their health.

Once activated in the Samsung Health Monitor app, the feature will check for irregular heart rhythms in the background via Galaxy Watch’s BioActive Sensor. If a certain number of consecutive measurements are irregular, Galaxy Watch warns the user of potential AFib activity, prompting them to take an ECG using their watch for a more accurate measurement.

The Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification feature will be available as part of the newly announced One UI 5 Watch, coming first to the upcoming Galaxy Watch devices later this year and later expanding to previous editions.⁵

¹ The IHRN feature is not intended to provide a notification on every episode of irregular rhythm suggestive of AFib and the absence of a notification is not intended to indicate no disease process is present. It is not intended for users with other known arrhythmias or users under 22 years old.
² Due to market restrictions in obtaining approval/registration as a Software as a Medical Device (SaMD), it only works on watches and smartphones purchased in the markets where service is currently available (however, service may be restricted when users travel to non-service countries).
³ The ECG app is only available in select markets. The ECG app is not intended to replace traditional methods of diagnosis or treatment. The ECG app is not intended for users with known arrhythmias other than AFib or users under 22 years old. Users should not interpret or take clinical action based on the device output without consultation of a qualified healthcare professional.
⁴ The HR Alert function is for general health and wellness purposes and is not intended for use in the diagnosis of disease or other conditions, or in the cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of disease.
⁵ Availability may vary by market, carrier, model or a paired smartphone. Available on Galaxy Watch4 series and later models.

The release of Galaxy Watch3 kicked off a new era of wearable innovation, bringing together luxurious aesthetics, cutting-edge technology, and an expansive suite of tools for monitoring your fitness and overall wellness. Beginning September 23,¹ people in the US will have access to yet another next-generation feature, as on-demand electrocardiogram (ECG) readings come to Galaxy Watch3 and Galaxy Watch Active2.²

This tool recently received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and will soon be available through the Samsung Health Monitor app when connected to a compatible Galaxy smartphone. The new ECG Monitor app allows users to monitor their heart rhythm for irregularities, scanning for signs of Atrial Fibrillation (AFib).³

To use the ECG Monitor app, simply take a seat, open up the new Samsung Health Monitor app, and ensure your watch is snug your wrist. Rest your arm on a flat surface, place your fingertip on the top button, and your watch will record an ECG and classify it as either Sinus Rhythm, or AFib.

Once the reading is complete, users can record relevant symptoms like fatigue or dizziness, and send a PDF report of their ECG recording with their healthcare provider using the Samsung Health Monitor app on a compatible Galaxy smartphone.

In addition to ECG monitoring, you can also conveniently track oxygen saturation on Galaxy Watch3. This feature can help users get a sense of how well their respiratory system is transferring oxygen into the bloodstream for fitness or other general wellness purposes.⁴

Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, or just looking to get back into shape, this device also features tools for taking your training to the next level. A new digital running coach offers real-time feedback on pace and form, as well as detailed post-workout reports to improve performance and reduce injury. Post-workout VO₂ max reports also allow users to effortlessly track their cardio fitness progress, measuring the amount of oxygen your body can utilize when running outside.⁵

To help improve your sleep so you can recover better, Galaxy Watch3 also comes with advanced sleep tracking features, which measure breathing, vitals, and REM cycles throughout the night, then use an algorithm to score your rest for the evening. Each morning, users can view a detailed report and receive tips on how to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.

Galaxy Watch3 merges timeless design with a cutting-edge suite of wellness features—and for users seeking a more modern, minimalist look, Galaxy Watch Active2 also supports new tools⁶ like Running Analysis, VO₂ max, and Fall Detection⁷ Together, these two devices ensure that no matter your style preference, you can find a powerful companion for managing your routines, smashing your fitness goals, and taking ownership over your health with a smartwatch that meets your needs.

¹ Availability may vary by market.

² Samsung Health Monitor app and ECG feature are available only on Galaxy Watch3 or Galaxy Watch Active2 paired with Samsung Galaxy smartphones with Android N or above.

³ The ECG Monitor app is not intended for users with known arrhythmias other than atrial fibrillation or users under 22 years old. Users should not interpret or take clinical action based on the device output without consultation of a qualified professional. The ECG Monitor app is not intended to replace traditional methods of diagnosis or treatment and is for information purpose only.

⁴ The blood oxygen (SpO2) measurement, VO₂ max, heart rate and trip detection software functions are not intended for use in the diagnosis of disease or other conditions, or in the cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of disease.

⁵ Accurate VO₂ max reading requires running outdoors for at least 20 minutes with GPS on; consult user manual before use.

⁶ Availability may vary by market or operator. Requires the latest version of the Galaxy Wearable app and Galaxy Watch plugin.

⁷ Fall Detection recognizes falls when engaged in dynamic motion, not when still. Requires network connection to notify emergency contact. GPS accuracy may be affected by obstructions to satellite signal such as smartphone.

and track their blood pressure via the Samsung Health Monitor App

anytime, anywhere¹

Samsung Electronics announced today that the Samsung Health Monitor application has launched in South Korea, following its clearance by South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) earlier this year. From today, Galaxy Watch Active2 users in Korea can access the Samsung Health Monitor app.²

To monitor blood pressure on the Galaxy Watch Active2, users will need to first calibrate with a traditional cuff. They will then be able to tap to “Measure” the blood pressure anytime, anywhere through pulse wave analysis via the Galaxy Watch Active2 wrist sensors.¹ The Samsung Health Monitor app analyzes the relationship between the calibration value and the blood pressure change to determine the blood pressure.³

When you measure your blood pressure with the Galaxy Watch Active2, the measurement results can be synced to the Samsung Health Monitor app on your Galaxy phone. You can track your blood pressure by days, weeks or months and choose to share this information with your doctor for review or consultation.

Electrocardiogram (ECG) tracking will also be supported on the Samsung Health Monitor app in South Korea within the third quarter of this year. Together, the ground-breaking blood pressure and ECG technology will help users monitor and manage their health by providing on-demand measurements.

It also means that the Galaxy Watch Active2 now boasts some of Samsung’s most advanced health and wellness capabilities to date, offering users a range of services to help track exercise, sleep, stress and much more.⁴ It provides users with an easy and convenient way to monitor their wellbeing and receive added health insights.

“The launch of the Samsung Health Monitor app demonstrates Samsung’s dedication to providing accessible and convenient healthcare for all by integrating advanced hardware and best-in-class software technology,” said TaeJong Jay Yang, Corporate SVP and Head of Health Team, Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics. “We’re delighted that Galaxy Watch Active2 users in Korea can now access the new app and receive insights to help them manage their health. We look forward to expanding the app to all future Galaxy Watch products.”

To measure blood pressure, users must have the Samsung Health Monitor app installed on both the Galaxy Watch Active2 and the Galaxy smartphone. The Samsung Health Monitor app is automatically installed on the Galaxy Watch Active2 by updating the Watch Software to the latest version via the Galaxy Wearable app. The smartwatch app will then open a link, which will direct users to the smartphone app download page in the Galaxy Store app.

¹ To ensure accuracy, users should calibrate their device at least every four weeks.

² Requires Galaxy smartphone, running Android 7.0 or above and Galaxy Watch Active2 or upcoming Galaxy Watch device(s) to be paired.

³ Users should measure their blood pressure when at rest, as they would do with a traditional cuff, and refrain from measuring when they are working out, smoking or drinking.

⁴ Availability may vary by market.

Samsung Electronics announced today that the Electrocardiogram (ECG) function of the Samsung Health Monitor app has been cleared by South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). The ECG feature uses advanced sensor technology on the Galaxy Watch Active2,¹ and will enable users to measure and analyze their heart rhythm for irregularities indicating Atrial Fibrillation (AFib).²

AFib is the most common abnormal heart rhythm, affecting an estimated 33.5 million people worldwide, with 5 million new patients diagnosed annually.³ It can significantly increase the risk of complications, including blood clots, heart failure and stroke. Every year, over 16 million people will develop a stroke, of which AFib and high blood pressure (hypertension), are known to be the leading causes.⁴

The Samsung Health Monitor app also recently received MFDS clearance for blood pressure (BP) measurement, meaning users will be able to conveniently measure both ECG and BP, giving them a better picture of their overall health. Together, the ground-breaking ECG and BP technology will help users manage and improve their health by providing on-demand measurements.

“We’re delighted to announce that the ECG function has been cleared by MFDS,” said TaeJong Jay Yang, Corporate SVP and Head of Health Team, Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics. “When you pair the advanced hardware of Galaxy watches with innovative software solutions, you can create unmatched experiences – such as in this case, convenient and accessible health check-ins for millions of users across the world. This marks just one way in which Samsung is pioneering to give everyone a simple, convenient and informed picture of their overall health and wellness.”

The ECG function works by analyzing the heart’s electrical activity via an ECG sensor on the Galaxy Watch Active2. Simply open the Samsung Health Monitor app when you are seated comfortably, and ensure the watch is fitted firmly to your wrist. Next, rest your forearm on a flat surface and lightly place a fingertip from the opposite hand on the top button on the Galaxy Watch Active2 for 30 seconds. The app will then measure your heart rate and rhythm, which will be classified as either a Sinus Rhythm (a normal, regular heartbeat) or AFib (when the heart beats irregularly).⁵

This recording will provide insight into a user’s health, enabling them to share results with their doctor to help make more informed decisions and live healthier life, especially when combined with the BP measurement.

The Samsung Health Monitor app⁶ will be available on the Galaxy Watch Active2 within the third quarter and will progressively expand to upcoming Galaxy Watch devices.

¹ Requires Galaxy smartphone, running Android N OS or above and Galaxy Watch Active2 or upcoming Galaxy Watch device(s) to be paired.

² The ECG recording or Samsung Health Monitor app never looks for signs of a heart attack.

³ Chugh SS et al. Worldwide epidemiology of atrial fibrillation. Circulation. 2014 Feb 25; 129(8): 837-47.

⁴ Feigin et al. Global and regional burden of stroke during 1990–2010. Lancet. 2014 Jan 18; 383(9913): 245–254.

⁵ It is not intended to replace traditional methods of diagnosis or treatment.

⁶ Availability may vary by market.