Apple & Google Expand Health Features with New Hypertension Alerts
Apple and Google are expanding their health features with new hypertension alerts. Apple's latest watches now offer these alerts, while Google's Pixel Watch is set to follow suit, with a study involving U.S. users underway.
Apple's Hypertension alerts, introduced in the Apple Watch Series 11, use a 30-day pattern of readings to indicate potential high blood pressure issues. Notably, these alerts do not require calibration, direct blood pressure measurement, or display a blood pressure reading to users. Instead, they rely on signs of high blood pressure to provide early warnings.
Google's Pixel Watch may soon incorporate similar features. A study involving everyday U.S. Pixel Watch owners is currently comparing watch readings with conventional blood pressure monitors. This study, which involves Fitbit, could pave the way for blood pressure monitoring on the Pixel Watch. Participants in this Fitbit Hypertension Study will be compensated $50 for their time. Google's approach may combine aspects of Apple's and Samsung's methods in the future.
Apple's Hypertension alerts, based on a large dataset from over 100,000 participants, are now available on the Apple Watch. Google's Pixel Watch is expected to follow suit, with a study currently underway. While there's no specific information about blood pressure warnings for the Pixel Watch based on the Fitbit Hypertension Study, Google's interest in integrating health functions into its wearables is evident. Users can look forward to more advanced health features in their smartwatches.
