Apple has announced new health tracking features that will be available with the upcoming release of watchOS 26. Notably, users may not need to upgrade their devices to access these features. The update, set to launch next week, will introduce hypertension notifications, live translation, and a new wrist flick gesture. These enhancements will be compatible with the Apple Watch Series 9, Watch Ultra 2, and newer models.
The hypertension notifications will utilize data from the existing optical heart sensor on the watches. This system analyzes the user’s blood vessel response to heartbeats over a 30-day period, using an algorithm to detect potential signs of high blood pressure. Apple anticipates receiving clearance from the FDA and other regulatory bodies this month, with the feature expected to roll out across more than 150 countries and regions.
In addition, Apple is expanding its Sleep Score feature to include a broader range of watches beyond the latest models. This feature will be available for the Watch Series 6 and later, along with all Watch Ultra models and second-generation Watch SE and newer. The Sleep Score utilizes various health metrics, such as heart rate, wrist temperature, blood oxygen levels, and respiratory data, to evaluate sleep quality. Compatibility with an iPhone 11 or later is required to use this feature.
As Apple continues to integrate more health-focused capabilities into its devices, questions remain regarding the accuracy and effectiveness of these features, particularly the hypertension notification system.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/775200/apple-watch-series-9-hypertension-sleep-score-wrist-flick