Samsung has recently received approval to enable blood pressure measurement and ECG readings on its smartwatches, bringing them on par with the Apple Watch in terms of health monitoring. This move is expected to help Samsung corner market share in the premium wearables segment and clear existing inventory.
With the latest firmware updates, Samsung smartwatch users in India can now take advantage of blood pressure and ECG measurement features. The new update activates the Samsung Health Monitor app on compatible smartwatches, allowing users to measure blood pressure and record ECGs. By following on-screen instructions and calibrating the watch with a traditional blood pressure monitor, users can track their systolic and diastolic pressure throughout the day. Additionally, with a simple 30-second finger touch on the Home button, users can capture their heart rhythm and potential irregularities, providing valuable insights for further discussion with their doctor.
With Samsung smartwatches becoming available in the price range of Rs 5,000-10,000, there is a potential for the brand to capture market share from entry-level smartwatch competitors. Additionally, it poses a challenge to premium players like Garmin, FitBit, and Amazfit. According to Anshika Jain, a research analyst at Counterpoint Research, while a significant portion of the smartwatch market still falls within the Rs 3,000 price range, there is a growing trend among smartwatch brands to operate in the Rs 5,000-10,000 price range, offering features such as eSIM support.
While these features offer exciting possibilities for health monitoring, it’s crucial to remember that Samsung smartwatches are not intended to be medical devices. The accuracy of blood pressure and ECG readings may not be clinical-grade, and users should always consult with a healthcare professional for definitive diagnosis or treatment decisions.
RTM Watch’s Take
This update marks a significant step forward for Samsung’s smartwatch lineup in India. It is likely that future software releases will extend these features to other models like the Galaxy Watch 6 and 6 Classic, further expanding health tracking options for users. With ongoing price corrections and the availability of these health-centric features, Samsung is well-positioned to challenge competitors like Garmin, FitBit, and Amazfit.
