Oura is set to launch a redesigned app that will incorporate expanded stress-tracking features and is developing new functionalities aimed at monitoring blood pressure. This initiative could potentially help identify early signs of hypertension, characterized by abnormally high blood pressure in the blood vessels.
The updated Oura app will introduce a Cumulative Stress feature, which is designed to offer users a weekly overview of how their body responds to and recovers from stress. This feature will utilize data derived from sleep patterns, heart rate, temperature readings, and physical activity. The redesigned app, along with the Cumulative Stress feature and a new stress management dashboard, is expected to be available on both iOS and Android platforms globally in the coming weeks.
Additionally, Oura has announced its collaboration with the FDA for a blood pressure study intended for US participants in its Oura Labs early access program. The goal of this study is to develop a feature that could identify early indicators of hypertension. Study participants will receive notifications regarding their risk of hypertension, which will be determined by integrating data from the Oura Ring with information collected through questionnaires focused on family history, medication, and lifestyle choices.
It is worth noting that several Apple Watch models already offer hypertension notifications, having received FDA clearance for this feature in September. This suggests a growing trend in wearable technology aimed at monitoring health conditions, though the effectiveness and accuracy of such features remain key points of interest.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/802527/oura-ring-stress-blood-pressure-test-app-redesign