Those with the Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch 2 Ultra models can use the detection tool by downloading Apple’s new watchOS 11 software.
According to the FDA approval notice, the sleep apnea tool is not a diagnostic tool but is designed to assess individuals’ risk of sleep apnea. Apple said one of the new features, called Breathing Disturbances, is a metric that acts as a “guardian for users’ health.”
Apple also said the feature works using an accelerometer on the watch to detect “small movements at the wrist associated with interruptions to normal respiratory patterns.”
Sleep apnea affects approximately 1 billion people worldwide, the report said.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.