Apple Watch patent hints at arrival of blood pressure measurement; here’s how it may work

Apple has patented new smartwatch technology that could finally bring blood pressure monitoring to the Apple Watch. The patent, published by the USPTO, describes a new method inspired by traditional blood pressure monitors, potentially allowing for more accurate readings without relying on optical sensors. This development could be a significant step forward for health tracking on Apple Watch.

The patent document (seen by Notebookcheck.net) demonstrates Apple’s design for a wearable device that includes a strap, a pump, an inflatable chamber, and a sensing chamber containing a liquid. The device is also expected to incorporate a vibration sensor and a pressure sensor to measure the user’s blood pressure.
In the patent, Apple states that this technology can be integrated into a wearable device. The patent’s diagrams suggest a design resembling the Apple Watch, complete with a crown and a side button. The patent also included another sketch to show the process of measuring blood pressure in details.
A flowchart in the document illustrates how Apple’s new blood pressure monitoring feature may work. The inflatable chamber would expand using the pump, while the sensing chamber measures vibrations. The device would then validate these measurements, maintain inflation, and remeasure both pressure and vibrations before deflating the chamber.
The patent also indicates that a liquid-filled sensing chamber could provide greater accuracy and sensitivity compared to air-based chambers. While the technology could be incorporated into various wearable devices, the accompanying drawings suggest it may eventually be integrated into the Apple Watch.
Reports indicate that Apple has been exploring blood pressure monitoring for the Apple Watch for years, with rumors suggesting it may debut with this year’s Apple Watch Series 10. However, Apple has yet to announce when this feature will be available on its popular smartwatch.