Apple has received US FDA approval to roll out a new health alert for its Apple Watches that can notify users if they show signs of chronic high blood pressure (hypertension). The rollout is expected to begin soon, and the feature will be available on eligible recent Apple Watch models.
How the Feature Works
- The system runs passively in the background, using the watch’s optical heart sensor.
- Over a 30-day period, it monitors how the blood vessels respond to each heartbeat. If consistent patterns indicating elevated blood pressure are detected, the user is alerted.
- This feature is not a diagnostic tool — it doesn’t measure blood pressure directly like a cuff, nor does it detect every case of hypertension.
Devices That Will Get the Feature
- The alert will be available on Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, Series 11, and Ultra 2 and Ultra 3 models.
- The feature will be delivered via the upcoming watchOS 26 update.
Scientific & Practical Details
- Apple trained the underlying algorithm using data from over 100,000 participants, and then validated it in a clinical study with more than 2,000 people.
- Apple estimates that with this rollout, over one million users could receive notifications about undiagnosed hypertension during the first year.
What to Do If You Get a Notification
- If you receive a hypertension alert, Apple recommends monitoring your blood pressure with a traditional cuff-based device over a seven-day period.
- Then share the readings with a healthcare provider to decide whether further evaluation or lifestyle changes are needed.
Availability & Reach
- The update and feature will start rolling out next week.
- It’s expected to be available in around 150 countries and regions.
Why This Matters
- Hypertension is often called a “silent killer” because many people have it without being aware. Early detection can help prevent severe complications like heart disease, stroke, or kidney problems.
- Having a smartwatch continuously monitor risk indicators could offer a helpful early warning system, prompting users to get checked or intervene sooner.