APPLE is reportedly developing a blood-pressure monitor for its smartwatch.
The tech giant has plans to incorporate a blood-pressure reader into Apple Watches as early as 2024, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday.
Expert Mark Gurman said that his sources indicate the gadget has been in the works for at least four years.
The device will reportedly feature updated sensors and software that can determine if an Apple Watch-wearer has high blood pressure.
And while the gadget wouldn’t reveal to users their numerical blood pressure reading, it would administer a warning if it believes they are suffering from hypertension.
The tool may also feature a pop-up message that advises users to consult a doctor or check their blood pressure with a traditional monitor.
However, it appears the device’s accuracy rate has not been particularly high during testing, Gurman writes.
On top of that, Apple may be in a race against the clock as it’s not the only tech giant trying to perfect the technology.
Samsung, one of Apple’s biggest competitors, recently launched smartwatches with blood-pressure readers.
Although, their tech requires monthly calibration with a traditional monitor to work properly.
Fitbit, which is owned by Alphabet, has also been teetering with the idea of developing a wrist-based blood-pressure monitor.
Apple has reportedly been testing its device on its employees in an attempt to get it up and running.
In addition to the blood pressure monitor, Apple may also be developing a non-invasive blood sugar reader for its smartwatch.
If successful, the device could prove to be a life-saver for users suffering from diabetes.
However, that tool is still a number of years away from being released, if ever.
Features that are expected to launch sooner for the Apple Watch include new tools that monitor women’s health, sleep, fitness, and medication management.