Apple Watch will get hypertension alerts on Sept. 15
By ForGeeks
Apple has confirmed: the FDA-cleared hypertension notifications feature will become available on Apple Watch with the release of watchOS 26 on September 15. According to company spokeswoman Zaina Kachadourian (in an email to the media), the innovation will come to both the new Apple Watch SE3, Series 11, and Ultra 3 models, as well as previously released watches – Apple Watch Series 9 and newer, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 and newer. The feature will be rolled out in more than 150 countries and regions with the release of watchOS 26.
Hypertension alerts on the Apple Watch utilize the optical heart rate sensor already in place. An algorithm analyzes how the user’s blood vessels react to heartbeats and evaluates the relevant signals over 30 days. If the system notices signs of high blood pressure, the user receives notifications. Apple unveiled the feature on Tuesday – at the same time as the Apple Watch SE3, Series 11, and Ultra 3 announcements.
It’s important to remember: We’re talking about notifications about possible hypertension, not a replacement for a medical tonometer. But the FDA clearance itself underscores that the regulator has cleared the technology for use in the U.S., and Apple has cleared it for a broad launch on supported models starting Sept.
The FDA’s clearance, however, is a sign that the technology is cleared for use in the U.S. and that Apple will launch it widely on supported models starting Sept.
Title: FDA approved hypertension notifications on Apple Watch: launching Sept. 15 with watchOS 26Description: Hypertension notifications on Apple Watch have received FDA clearance and will launch Sept. 15 with watchOS 26. Support: Series 9 and newer, Ultra 2 and newer, new SE3, Series 11, Ultra 3. Algorithm analyzes optical sensor data for 30 days and alerts you to signs of high blood pressure. Available in 150+ countries.
