NEWS  Apple  November 3, 2023  Reading time: 3 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Apple is continuing to push the boundaries of health monitoring tools with its iconic Apple Watch. In 2024, this renowned wearable device is rumored to receive a significant upgrade, potentially incorporating three additional sensors that promise to enhance its health monitoring capabilities. These new features are speculated to include the ability to warn users about prediabetes, detect rising blood pressure, and provide alerts for potential sleep apnea.

The Apple Watch has long been a staple in the company's health and fitness offerings, and recent years have seen a focus on health-centered upgrades. In 2022, for instance, Apple introduced fertility tracking tools and a body temperature sensor. Earlier this year, there were whispers of an AI-powered health coach in development, which would use biometric and behavioral data collected by the watch to design personalized health plans. This indicates Apple's keen interest in expanding its presence in the ever-growing healthcare industry. Reports suggest that these new health sensors will continue to function as non-treatment, non-diagnostic tools, leaving the door open for potential expansion into post-diagnosis care.

The rumored blood glucose monitoring system is poised to be a game-changer, alerting Apple Watch users if they are prediabetic using a noninvasive method that shines light through the skin to measure blood glucose levels. However, it's worth noting that this feature won't provide actual blood sugar readings for users already diagnosed with diabetes.

The blood pressure sensor is designed to recognize elevated blood pressure and will be accompanied by a "blood pressure journal," akin to Apple's other personal tracking features. This journal aims to help users monitor external factors that may contribute to hypertension. It won't provide users with precise systolic and diastolic measurements suitable for medical treatment. Another anticipated addition is a sleep apnea sensor that tracks breathing patterns during sleep and offers estimations regarding the presence of this condition. It will also suggest when it might be advisable to consult a physician, building upon the watch's existing sleep tracking capabilities.

These exciting new features may coincide with the launch of a rumored subscription-based and AI-powered health service, according to exclusive reports. However, Apple's overarching goal to "revolutionize healthcare" is still on the horizon, as insiders reveal. These potential features, while not officially confirmed by Apple, are reportedly in development under the Apple Exploratory Design Group. The company is taking a cautious approach, emphasizing its disinterest in post-sick healthcare, possibly due to concerns about regulatory complexities and the risk of misdiagnosis.

Apple's venture into healthcare aligns with its broader strategy of transitioning users away from single-use device ecosystems and toward a comprehensive model of health technology. Nevertheless, previous expansions of the Apple Watch have raised various concerns, including worries about data bias and potential privacy issues.

In a healthcare landscape marked by high costs and accessibility challenges, Apple aims to provide more affordable options for health monitoring and access to physician care. The introduction of limited-use health tools, such as those rumored for release in the coming year, represents the company's commitment to bridging the healthcare gap and enhancing the well-being of its users.

(Cover image by Freepik)