Apple to Introduce Sleep Apnea Detection Feature in Its Smartwatches

Apple is preparing to launch a new sleep apnea detection feature in its upcoming smartwatches. The feature will enable the device to determine whether a user suffers from sleep apnea and recommend that they seek further medical consultation.

The tech giant is expected to unveil its latest smartwatch models, including the 10th generation of the Apple Watch, the third version of the Apple Watch Ultra, and a new budget-friendly option.

According to reports, Apple will introduce the 10th generation Apple Watch with a slimmer design and a larger screen. A report by Bloomberg highlights that the major feature of these new models will be the ability to detect sleep apnea.

Apple has been working on developing this feature for some time, but it was previously unclear whether it would be ready for release this year.

The new sleep apnea detection capability will be included in both the 10th generation Apple Watch and the third version of the Apple Watch Ultra. The device will monitor users' sleep patterns, detect potential signs of sleep apnea, and suggest they consult a doctor for further evaluation.

This new feature is similar to the existing health alerts in the Apple Watch that monitor irregular heart rates, low heart rates, blood oxygen levels, and other health conditions.

Bloomberg noted that Apple might announce this feature during its upcoming event next Monday. However, it may not be available immediately upon the launch of the new watches, as the feature is expected to be activated through a future software update for watchOS. This indicates that Apple is still finalizing the details of the feature.

The sleep apnea detection feature seems to be connected to the new "Vitals" app in watchOS 11, which tracks various health indicators during a user’s sleep.

Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops during sleep. These pauses can last a few seconds or even minutes, causing a drop in blood oxygen levels and an increase in carbon dioxide. Over time, this can lead to a variety of health issues.

In 2022, Bloomberg reported that Apple was also working on a blood pressure detection feature for its Apple Watch, which was expected to be available by 2024. However, Bloomberg now states that... (the report continues).