New beta brings background AFib detection to Withings ScanWatch 2
Withings has pushed a new beta firmware for ScanWatch 2 that enables background AFib detection. The monitoring feature scans for irregular heart rhythms every ten minutes.
Withings quietly activates passive AFib checks
Beta version 7.5.2 (build 70.50.201) is now available for ScanWatch 2 users enrolled in the company’s testing program. While not yet available in the general release channel, it brings a feature many users have been waiting for – automatic AFib detection. Unlike on-demand ECG readings, this works entirely in the background. Once you opt into the beta, the feature can be toggled on by heading to Device Settings and enabling the “Signs of AFib” switch.
This isn’t a real-time ECG. Instead, the watch uses optical heart rate signals to look for irregular patterns that may point to atrial fibrillation. If something out of the ordinary is detected, the watch will recommend taking a proper ECG reading to confirm. That’s similar to what Apple Watch does. Withings runs the scan every ten minutes in the background, without needing any action from the wearer.
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The ScanWatch 2 already had the ability to take medical-grade ECGs, but until now it required the user to manually initiate the check. This passive monitoring helps close that gap. It means the watch can now act as a low-grade early warning system for one of the most common types of arrhythmia.
Only a Beta for now
The feature will eventually make its way into the stable release, but there’s no timeline yet. As always with beta firmware, the company is likely using this early release to catch bugs and test real-world performance before rolling it out more widely. If you’re already part of the beta program, you’ll need to install the new firmware manually and activate the AFib toggle yourself. The option won’t be turned on by default.
It’s worth remembering that this kind of detection is still classed as indicative, not diagnostic. But it does give users a chance to catch silent or sporadic episodes they wouldn’t otherwise notice.
Withings has been steadily rolling out updates to the ScanWatch 2 over the past month. One of the more recent ones added the long-awaited heart rate variability tracking.
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