Apple Expands Health Features to Older Watches with watchOS 26

Apple has announced significant upgrades to its smartwatch lineup, introducing the new Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch SE 3. These devices come equipped with advanced health tracking features. Notably, several of these enhancements will also be available to select older models through the upcoming update to watchOS 26, set to launch on September 15, 2025.

Key Features for Health Monitoring

Among the most anticipated features is the addition of hypertension detection, which aims to alert users about potential high blood pressure. Chronic high blood pressure often goes unnoticed but can lead to serious health complications like heart attacks and strokes. Apple estimates that this feature could help identify hypertension in approximately one million people within its first year of operation. The functionality relies on the optical heart sensor to monitor how blood vessels respond to heartbeats, gathering data over a 30-day period. Although it is not a definitive diagnostic tool, it prompts users to consult medical professionals if an alert is triggered.

All new models, including the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3, will support hypertension detection, with the feature also being extended to the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Series Ultra 2.

Another significant enhancement is the Sleep Score feature, designed to provide users with a comprehensive view of their sleep patterns. By wearing the Apple Watch during sleep, users can previously track their total sleep duration and sleep stages. The new Sleep Score will offer an overall rating each morning, based on various metrics such as bedtime and duration of deep sleep. This feature aims to simplify sleep tracking, giving users a score that allows them to monitor their sleep quality over time.

Innovative Fitness Tracking with Workout Buddy

Apple is also introducing the Workout Buddy feature within the Workout app. This digital coach, powered by Apple Intelligence, provides personalized fitness guidance tailored to users’ previous activities. The Workout Buddy will deliver motivational messages and real-time performance updates, helping individuals stay on track with their fitness goals. For instance, users may receive encouragement regarding their weekly exercise targets or notifications about their pace during runs.

This feature will work with a variety of workout types, including outdoor and indoor runs, cycling, and high-intensity interval training. To utilize Workout Buddy, users will need a pair of Bluetooth headphones and an Apple Intelligence-equipped device, such as the iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, or any model from the iPhone 16 or 17 series.

As Apple rolls out these features, the focus remains on improving users’ health and fitness experiences through innovative technology. With watchOS 26 set to enhance a range of models, many Apple Watch users will gain access to these advanced tools, making health monitoring and fitness tracking more accessible than ever.