A UK clinical study has revealed that Sky Labs’ smart ring, the CART-I (Cardio Tracker), surpasses the Apple Watch in detecting atrial fibrillation (AFib).
The study, published in the international journal Heart Rhythm O2, highlights the device’s superior sensitivity in identifying the heart condition.
Sky Labs CEO Jack Lee said: “This study offers strong external validation of CART-I’s performance in detecting atrial fibrillation.
“Together with CART BP, which focuses on hypertension management, these results demonstrate CART-I’s potential to support broader cardiovascular monitoring in the future. We will continue to develop medical devices that deliver both accuracy and convenience for patients.”
The comparative study was carried out in three UK hospitals, which include Oxford University Hospital, University Hospital Southampton, and Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
It involved around 500 patients and evaluated both the CART-I and Apple Watch under identical clinical protocols.
The devices’ automatic AFib detection algorithms were examined using single-lead electrocardiograms (SL-ECG), which were then interpreted by physicians. Results showed CART-I achieved 84.6% sensitivity, while the Apple Watch recorded 69.1%.
In physician interpretation of SL-ECGs, both devices performed well, with the Apple Watch scoring 95.4% sensitivity and CART-I at 94.3%.
The study’s significance is underscored by its inclusion of various arrhythmias beyond atrial fibrillation, such as atrial flutter and atrial tachycardia.
Researchers emphasised that while wearable devices are beneficial, they are not standalone solutions for diagnosing complex arrhythmias like atrial flutter or atrial tachycardia, highlighting the necessity of physician interpretation.
Sky Labs, founded in 2015, has developed the CART series, including the CART BP, to enhance disease monitoring through heart signals collected via optical sensors.
The South Korean health-tech startup has also partnered with Daewoong Pharmaceutical for the domestic distribution of CART BP pro, preparing for widespread sales across hospitals, clinics, and to consumers.
