Apple Watch Launches FDA-Approved Hypertension Alerts in 150 Countries

Apple has received FDA approval to launch a new hypertension detection feature on its smartwatches, starting with a rollout on September 15. This feature, available in over 150 countries, uses the optical heart sensor on Apple Watch Series 9, 10, 11, and Ultra 2 and 3 models to passively monitor blood vessel responses to heartbeats over 30-day periods, alerting users of consistent signs of high blood pressure. Although it won't detect all cases, Apple expects the alerts to notify over one million people of undiagnosed hypertension within the first year, encouraging them to seek medical advice. The technology relies on advanced machine learning trained on data from multiple studies involving over 100,000 participants, aiming to empower users to make lifesaving behavioral changes. Alongside this, Apple also introduced enhanced health features in the Apple Watch Series 11, such as improved sleep tracking, better sensors, and longer battery life, while maintaining similar design elements from previous models. This launch highlights Apple's continued expansion into health-focused wearable technology amid growing competition in the industry.