Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 launched today, featuring hypertension notifications as a primary highlight. Importantly, previous Apple Watch models will also be able to utilize these alerts.
### Hypertension Notifications Coming to Three Existing Apple Watch Models in watchOS 26
After Apple’s latest event, the release candidate version of watchOS 26 was introduced, scheduled to be available for users on September 15. This update brings a notable feature for earlier models.
The hypertension notifications, highlighted on the new Series 11 and Ultra 3, will also be accessible on:
– Apple Watch Ultra 2
– Apple Watch Series 10
– Apple Watch Series 9
Apple explains that the hypertension notifications leverage data from the optical heart sensor to assess how blood vessels respond to heartbeats. The algorithm processes data over 30-day intervals and notifies users of persistent signs of hypertension. This feature is designed to offer health insights, prompting users to adopt behavioral changes or seek medical assistance to reduce long-term health risks.
The watchOS 26 RC notes specify:
– Hypertension notifications can inform users if indicators of chronic high blood pressure are detected over 30 days (available on Series 9 and later, Ultra 2 and later).
– This feature is meant for individuals aged 22 and above, without a prior hypertension diagnosis, and who are not pregnant.
Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 are up for pre-order, with dispatch beginning on September 19.
