Apple's ECG app helped it become one of the first wearables to detect heart conditions, but you can also use a Fitbit alternative to do the very same.
Fitbit itself isn't able to spot irregularities, though its smartwatches - the Versa series and the Ionic - are now able to access a new third-party service that can.
The app? Fibricheck - a CE certified health screening and monitoring platform that leverages the PPG heart rate monitor to give users a reading and potentially detect the likes of atrial fibrillation.
For now, the app is only able to offer assessments in the UK, Ireland, Belgium and the Netherlands - and, below, we explain how to get started.
How to take a reading on Fitbit
Unlike the Apple Watch and other examples, you'll need to pay a subscription fee if you want to gain access to readings.
However, you can access a one-day free trial for the service, and the data does go a step further than just a simple explanation of your rhythm, with your results reviewed and personal weekly reports created based on your readings.
For that reason, and based on our experience, Fibricheck feels much more like a professional, long-term way for users to monitor heart conditions, rather than to simply check once if a reading can detect something irregular.
How to download Fibricheck on Fitbit
1. Go to the Fitbit app.
2. In the top-left corner, tap the Account icon and then select your device.
3. Tap Apps > All Apps and then search 'Fibricheck'.
4. From here, download the app and wait for it to appear on your wrist.
Tip: As we just mentioned, this is a subscription service, so you'll need to also create an account with Fibricheck online and select a fee tier, which you'll be prompted to do in the app before getting started.
However, you can access a free trial of the service for one day. Once it's downloaded to your Fitbit account, go to My Apps > Fibricheck > Settings > Start free trial.
You'll then be re-routed to Fibricheck, where you can input your login and gain access to the free trial.
Use Fibricheck to take a reading
1. Open the Fibricheck app on your Fitbit smartwatch.
2. Ensure your Fitbit smartwatch is away from your wrist bone and remain still.
3. Tap 'Measure', which will then start a 60-second reading.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions and wait for your reading.
How we test
Conor moved to Wareable Media Group in 2017, initially covering all the latest developments in smartwatches, fitness trackers, and VR. He made a name for himself writing about trying out translation earbuds on a first date and cycling with a wearable airbag, as well as covering the industry’s latest releases.
Following a stint as Reviews Editor at Pocket-lint, Conor returned to Wareable Media Group in 2022 as Editor-at-Large. Conor has become a wearables expert, and helps people get more from their wearable tech, via Wareable's considerable how-to-based guides.
He has also contributed to British GQ, Wired, Metro, The Independent, and The Mirror.