Author: sparta

# Apple Watch Glucose Level Tracking: A Move Towards Non-Invasive Health Innovations

For quite some time, Apple has been rumored to include glucose level tracking within its Apple Watch series, a feature that reportedly originated with the very first model. In spite of more than ten years of speculation and eagerness, this function has not yet become a reality. Nevertheless, recent progress indicates that we may be approaching a significant advancement in non-invasive glucose assessment.

## Importance of Glucose Level Tracking

According to the International Diabetes Federation, more than 10% of adults suffer from diabetes, with almost half of these individuals unaware of their status. Diabetes ranks as a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and the dangers are particularly pronounced for those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes prior to age 40. Timely detection is vital for effective handling and treatment, yet existing glucose monitoring tools are invasive, necessitating a needle to penetrate the skin. This invasive characteristic restricts use primarily to individuals already at risk.

## Non-Invasive Device Currently Under Clinical Assessment

The pursuit of non-invasive glucose monitoring has been a major focus within health technology. Should this effort succeed, incorporating this feature into widely utilized devices like the Apple Watch could significantly impact public health. One encouraging approach involves analyzing acetone levels in breath, which can signal increasing blood glucose levels.

A device named Isaac, which is presently in clinical testing, employs this method. It is crafted to be worn as a pendant, measuring volatile organic compounds in breath to identify biomarkers linked to glucose levels. The device is undergoing active trials at Indiana University, evaluating its efficacy against traditional glucose monitoring techniques, beginning with adolescents diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and later expanding to adults with type 2 diabetes. The trials aim for regulatory assessment by the FDA soon.

## This Technology May Find Its Way into an Apple Watch

The Isaac device functions by having users exhale into it, delivering a quick reading rather than continuous observation. While this technique facilitates daily assessments, each test only requires a few seconds. The challenge is to miniaturize the technology to fit into the streamlined design of an Apple Watch, as the current dimensions of the Isaac are comparable to that of the watch itself.

If the Isaac device secures FDA approval, it could set the stage for similar technology to be incorporated into future Apple Watch iterations. This advancement would mark a significant leap in wearable health technology, potentially allowing millions to monitor their glucose levels easily and non-invasively.

In conclusion, as the field of health technology progresses, the addition of non-invasive glucose level tracking into devices like the Apple Watch could transform diabetes management and early detection, ultimately preserving lives and enhancing health outcomes for countless individuals.

Apple’s Back to School promotions offer a fantastic chance for students, educators, and academic personnel to save on crucial technology. Although the deals generally kick off in the summer for the US and Europe, various nations, including Australia, Brazil, New Zealand, and South Korea, have early access to these promotions, which last until March 11.

The Back to School promotion features regular education discounts along with the opportunity to choose complimentary accessories when purchasing qualifying devices like the iPad, MacBook, or iMac. This enables customers to enjoy substantial savings, making certain accessories free while also offering discounts on pricier options.

### iMac Promotions
For individuals acquiring an iMac, the following accessories are offered:
– AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation
– AirPods Pro 3 (available for an extra A$130)

### MacBook Promotions
Consumers purchasing a MacBook can select from a range of accessories, including:
– AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation
– AirPods Pro 3 (available for an extra A$130)
– Magic Mouse
– Magic Trackpad
– Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and numeric keypad

### iPad Promotions
iPad purchasers can choose from these accessories:
– Apple Pencil Pro
– AirPods 4
– AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation (available for an extra A$80)
– AirPods Pro 3 (available for an extra A$210)
– A A$199 discount on any Magic Keyboard for iPad

These promotions complement the standard education discounts, making it a perfect opportunity for those involved in the education sector to invest in new technology.

Apple has announced that Chase will take over as the new issuer of Apple Card, succeeding Goldman Sachs, with the change anticipated to take place in about 24 months. Throughout this timeframe, Apple Card holders may continue to utilize their cards as usual, and additional information will be shared as the transition date draws closer.

Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s VP of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, highlighted the pride in how Apple Card has changed the credit card landscape, underlining the mutual dedication to innovation shared by Apple and Chase. Apple has established a new webpage to answer commonly asked questions about the transition.

Key points regarding the transition include:

– Current Apple Card users will not have to reapply.
– Mastercard will persist as the payment network.
– Users should keep settling their balances as they currently do; balances will roll over to Chase after the transition.
– Access to Savings will remain, with further details to be provided later.
– Users can oversee their Apple Card accounts via the Wallet app.
– Existing physical Apple Cards can continue to be used normally, with updates about new cards forthcoming.
– Apple Card Monthly Installments will still be an option for purchasing Apple goods.
– There will be no fees linked to Apple Card, including annual, late, or foreign transaction charges.
– Credit reports will show Chase as the new issuing bank once the transition is finalized.

At present, Apple indicates that there is no action required from Apple Card users for the transition to Chase, and any necessary updates will be shared directly with users as the transition date approaches. Additional information is available on Apple’s website.

# Personalizing Your iPhone with iOS 26: Essential Settings to Adjust

iOS 26 and its updates have rolled out a variety of personalization choices for iPhone users via the Settings app. Below are some key settings that can elevate your iPhone experience.

## Wallpaper Photo Blur on Always On Display

In iOS 26, the Always On Display feature has been updated to blur the wallpaper photo by default. This change is intended to highlight the new Liquid Glass clock more effectively or possibly to save battery power. If you wish to retain the original appearance of your Lock Screen photos, you can easily change this setting back. Go to **Settings ⇾ Display & Brightness ⇾ Always On Display** and switch off the ‘Blur Wallpaper Photo’ option.

## Lock Screen Camera Swipe

For years, users have been able to access the Camera app by swiping left on the Lock Screen. However, with the addition of various options to open the Camera, this gesture has become less common. In iOS 26.1, Apple allows users to turn off the Lock Screen swipe for opening the Camera. To disable this, navigate to **Settings ⇾ Camera** and locate the ‘Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera’ toggle at the bottom. Switching it off will prevent unintentional launches of the Camera app.

## Adaptive Power Feature

The newly introduced Adaptive Power option in iOS 26 aims to prolong battery life without noticeably hindering performance. Unlike the standard Low Power Mode, which significantly limits performance, Adaptive Power makes subtle tweaks, such as reducing display brightness and extending the duration of some activities. You can find this feature under **Settings ⇾ Battery ⇾ Power Mode ⇾ Adaptive Power**. It activates only during unusually high battery usage, serving as a practical solution for users who want to save energy without compromising performance.

## Sleep Detection for AirPods

iOS 26 has brought a new capability for AirPods that senses when you are asleep and automatically pauses media playback. This is especially beneficial for those who listen to audiobooks or podcasts before going to sleep. To activate this option, go to the AirPods settings and enable ‘Pause Media When Falling Asleep.’ This feature is available for AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4, simplifying your listening experience by eliminating the need to find your place after pausing.

## Summary

The new settings in iOS 26 and iOS 26.1 provide users with greater control over their iPhone experience. Whether it’s personalizing the Always On Display, disabling accidental Camera openings, engaging Adaptive Power mode, or managing AirPods playback, these features can greatly enhance usability and customization. Take the time to explore these settings to tailor your iPhone to your liking.