Apple Watch to Feature an Inflatable Blood Pressure Sensor

The problem of monitoring blood pressure on Apple’s smartwatches may finally be solved. According to Patently Apple, Apple has filed a new patent related to this invention. The patent describes an inflatable layer and an air pump that compress the arteries of a user before deflating so that a sensing stack can monitor blood pressure changes. It works similarly to a classic blood pressure device by compressing the upper arm and collapsing the blood vessels. Apple’s solution is more challenging because of its tiny electronic and mechanical components. Apple’s new patent suggests an Apple Watch equipped with a blood pressure device. Apple’s current line of smartwatches may not include the feature. Bloomberg reported earlier this year that Apple has pushed back its plans to add blood pressure monitoring to its watches until 2024 after encountering several issues during testing. Apple’s engineers, fortunately, have a solution. Blood pressure may be measured by a separate device. On the wrist, a compact device is sandwiched between the strap and back. There are stacked components in the device, including a liquid-filled sensor and mechanisms for measuring pressure changes.