Apple Watch Now Warns Users of High Blood Pressure Thanks to AI-Powered Alerts

Breaking News: Apple Watch's New High Blood Pressure Notifications Developed with AI Apple has developed a groundbreaking feature on its popular smartwatch that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to alert users about possible high blood pressure, according to Reuters. This innovation marks the culmination of six years of research and development by Apple's team. Timeline and Details The new feature was made possible through a massive study involving 100,000 participants enrolled in Apple's heart and movement study, launched in 2019. The AI algorithm was developed after multiple layers of machine learning were applied to the data from the watch's main heart-related sensor. The algorithm was then validated with a specific study of 2,000 participants. Immediate Impact The feature has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and will be rolled out on many Apple Watches soon. This innovation is expected to have a significant impact on public health, particularly in detecting high blood pressure, which often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Background Context High blood pressure affects millions of people worldwide, leading to cardiovascular diseases and other serious health issues. Early detection and management are crucial for preventing these complications. Apple's AI-powered feature is a significant step towards making healthcare more accessible and proactive. What Happens Next The new feature will notify users that they may have high blood pressure and encourage them to consult their doctors. This development highlights the potential of AI in healthcare, particularly in detecting chronic conditions through wearable devices. As research continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative applications of AI in medicine. Apple's vice president of health, Sumbul Ahmad Desai, emphasized that the company's privacy measures mean it doesn't collect a lot of data outside of large-scale studies. However, these studies provide valuable insights into detecting early warning signs of high blood pressure. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Apple reporting.*