Charge 5 Abib ECG in Japan?

[TinJ]

A few years ago it wasn't listed. I just checked now and it still isn't on the list:

https://www.fitbit.com/global/us/technology/irregular-rhythm

However, there is a long explanation in Japanese about the Afib features, so I am confused.

https://help.fitbit.com/articles/ja/Help_article/2467.htm

[LZeeW]

@TinJ  Fitbit's Help articles are available in over 15 languages, including Japanese.  This doesn't mean that the feature is available in Japan.  The Help article is also available in Korean, but the feature isn't available in Korea.  The feature was first released only in the US.  But the Help article was available in every language.  I hope this clears up your confusion.

[RiekoC · Accepted solution]

Hello @TinJ 

As I understand it, the Fitbit Afib detection and ECG feature requires approval/clearance from a country's health authority/regulatory agency. Apparently, Fitbit doesn't have the necessary clearance from the Japanese Pharmaceuticals and Medical Device Agency to allow users to use that feature. We have no idea if this will change in the future. 

[TinJ]

Crazy they still don't have approval. The Apple watch got approved years ago. Looking at the ads (in Japanese) they make it seem like it has been approved, which is deceptive.

[TinJ]

It does, though explaining features that are not accessible on the device is not the best marketing strategy.

This link is in Japanese and makes it look like the feature is available.

https://www.fitbit.com/global/jp/technology/ecg