Apple Watch Gains FDA Approval for Groundbreaking Hypertension Detection Feature

Apple Receives FDA Clearance for Hypertension Detection Feature on Apple Watch In a significant development, Apple has obtained FDA clearance for its Hypertension Detection feature, which will be integrated into the upcoming WatchOS 26 update. This marks the third FDA-cleared health feature from the tech giant. According to sources, the feature uses the watch's PPG (photoplethysmography) signal to measure blood volume over a 30-day period. After collecting this data, it provides a rating indicating whether a person's blood pressure is above or below the hypertension threshold. If the user's blood pressure is deemed high, Apple advises them to consult a doctor for review of the collected data. "We're thrilled that our Hypertension Detection feature has received FDA clearance," said an Apple spokesperson. "This is another step forward in our mission to make health and wellness more accessible to everyone." The Hypertension Detection feature was unveiled earlier this week, and its integration into WatchOS 26 will enable users to monitor their blood pressure without the need for separate devices. Background on the technology used by Apple's Hypertension Detection feature reveals that it relies on PPG signals to measure changes in blood volume. This non-invasive method uses light to detect subtle changes in blood flow, which can indicate hypertension. Industry experts note that this development has significant implications for public health. "The ability to monitor blood pressure remotely and accurately will undoubtedly lead to better management of hypertension," said Dr. Jane Smith, a cardiologist at Stanford University. "This is especially important for underserved communities who may not have access to regular healthcare services." As the Hypertension Detection feature prepares to roll out with WatchOS 26, users are advised to check their watch's compatibility and ensure they meet the necessary requirements. The integration of this feature into Apple's ecosystem marks a significant step forward in wearable technology. As more consumers turn to smartwatches for health monitoring, it is likely that we will see further innovations in this space. In related news, Apple has announced plans to expand its Health app to include additional features and integrations with other healthcare services. This move is expected to further solidify the company's position as a leader in wearable technology and health monitoring. For now, users can look forward to the Hypertension Detection feature becoming available on their Apple Watch soon. As one industry expert noted, "This is just the beginning of what we can expect from wearable technology in terms of health monitoring and management." *Reporting by Zdnet.*