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AliveCor announces new technology for Apple Watch that can warn users of stroke

16 March 2016

AliveCor, one of the innovations on the NHS Innovation Accelerator (NIA) programme and the leader in FDA-cleared electrocardiogram (ECG) technology for mobile devices, announced today the introduction of the first medical-grade ECG band for the Apple Watch, Kardia Band. The Kardia Band for Apple Watch, and new Kardia app, represent a significant breakthrough in proactive heart health by allowing people to discretely capture their ECG anytime, anywhere.

Kardia Band is designed for anyone who wants to learn more about their health in addition to people with a chronic heart condition called atrial fibrillation (AF), a leading cause of stroke, and doctors who want to bring the latest in proactive heart health technology to their patients and practices. Kardia Band provides caregivers the opportunity to take a more active role in helping their loved one manage their own care. The Kardia Band will go on sale in the UK in the next few months.

Users can record a single-lead ECG by simply touching Kardia Band’s integrated sensor that communicates with the Watch app, Kardia by AliveCor. The AF detector then uses Kardia’s automated analysis process to instantly detect the presence of AF, the most common cardiac arrhythmia and a leading cause of stroke. The normal detector indicates whether the heart rhythm is normal or if there is need for further evaluation and consultation with a medical professional.

Users can also record voice memos on their Apple Watch to accompany each ECG that give doctors and caregivers a clearer picture of what was happening at the time of the recording — describing symptoms such as palpitations or external factors like caffeine intake. Kardia also integrates seamlessly with Apple’s Health app to include ECG data with steps and calorie intake to provide richer, personal analysis over time.

Francis White, Vice President of AliveCor was named as an NIA Fellow in July 2015. As part of the NIA, Francis receives bespoke learning and development opportunities including a seasoned healthcare innovator mentor, an Academic Health Science Network lead, quarterly learning events, peer-to-peer support as well as access to a bursary of up to £50,000.