The ECG feature of the Apple Watch may become available to use in Japan in the near future, after the heart-monitoring function received local regulatory approval.
Apple has been relatively slow to roll out the electrocardiogram feature of the Apple Watch, which uses electrodes to record electrical pulses of a heart beat. After initially being available in the United States with the Apple Watch Series 4, Apple has gradually secured regulatory approval in other countries before enabling it in each territory.
According to iPhone Mania, the ECG app of watchOS obtained approval from Japanese regulators on September 4, under a pair of certificates for "Home ECG program" and "Home heart rate monitor program." Apple initially applied for approval through the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency in June.
While Apple now has approval for the feature to function in Japan, it now depends on when Apple issues a watchOS update that enables support in the country. It is more likely that a minor watchOS update enabling ECG in Japan will arrive sooner, rather than being held for the release of watchOS 7.
Japan will be the latest country to gain ECG support, following after August's approval in South Korea, and a similar June approval for Brazil.