Apple introduced its latest lineup — the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch SE 3 — earlier this week. Among the new features was Hypertension Notification, a tool designed to monitor users for signs of high blood pressure.
The feature uses an optical heart sensor combined with machine learning to track blood vessel responses over time. If the watch detects patterns suggesting chronic hypertension, users receive a prompt to verify their blood pressure with a third-party cuff and consult a physician.
FDA Approval Now Granted
When the watches were first announced, Apple noted that the feature was pending FDA clearance. That approval has now been confirmed, with Apple announcing Friday that Hypertension Notification will officially roll out next week in more than 150 countries and regions, including the U.S.
While it will be available on the new Apple Watch models, users don’t need the very latest hardware. With watchOS 26, the feature also works on Apple Watch Series 9 or later, as well as Apple Watch Ultra 2 and newer models.
Author’s Opinion
Apple’s clearance is a big deal not just for tech enthusiasts but for everyday healthcare. Hypertension is one of the leading silent killers worldwide, and integrating early detection into a widely used consumer device could help millions catch issues sooner. While the watch isn’t a replacement for proper medical equipment, its constant presence on the wrist could act as a nudge toward healthier habits. If Apple succeeds here, it might push rivals to prioritize meaningful health features instead of cosmetic upgrades.
Featured image credit: GEEK KAZU via Flickr
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