Apple Watch sleep apnea detection gets FDA approval

Apple Watch sleep apnea detection feature now FDA-approved in watchOS 11

Apple Watch users can now track sleep apnea with FDA-cleared detection.

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Sep 17, 2024, 1:33 AM EDT

Apple has just taken another significant step forward in health monitoring. The company’s latest innovation, a sleep apnea detection feature, has received the green light from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that owners of the Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 can now use their devices to potentially identify signs of this serious sleep disorder.

So, how does this new feature actually work? It’s all thanks to the Apple Watch‘s built-in accelerometer. This sensor measures small wrist movements, which can be linked to breathing disturbances during sleep. By analyzing these movements, the watch’s algorithm can detect potential signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea.

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watchOS 11 is here with sleep apnea detection and more for Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2

If the watch detects a pattern of abnormal breathing, it will send a notification to the user, alerting them to the possibility of sleep apnea. This information can then be further explored in the Health app, where users can track their “breathing disturbances” metric and even download data to share with their doctor.

Apple emphasizes that the sleep apnea notification algorithm was developed in collaboration with medical experts, using advanced machine learning techniques and a vast dataset of clinical-grade sleep apnea tests. This ensures that the feature is based on solid scientific principles and can provide accurate results.

It’s worth noting that Apple isn’t the only tech giant to offer sleep apnea detection on its wearables. Samsung‘s Galaxy Watch also received FDA approval for its sleep apnea feature earlier this year.

As for Apple, the company plans to roll out sleep apnea detection to even more users. The feature will be available in over 150 countries and regions, and it’s expected to be included in the new Watch Series 10.

This new development from Apple represents a significant advancement in the field of wearable technology and sleep health. By making it easier for people to monitor their sleep patterns and identify potential issues, the Apple Watch’s sleep apnea detection feature could help improve the lives of millions around the world.