During the iPhone 16 launch event, Apple revealed new features for the AirPods Pro 2, with one standout being their ability to function as hearing aids with iOS 18. Apple continues to impress with its commitment to accessibility and health innovations. The company is now working to evolve AirPods into versatile health tools. A newly granted patent reveals that Apple is testing future AirPods models to detect heart conditions such as abnormal heartbeats, bradycardia, and tachycardia.
The patent suggests that Apple may integrate small, sensitive microphones into future AirPods models. These microphones would analyze heart activity by processing the signals they capture. If any irregular or unusual heart activity is detected, the user could receive an alert. This advanced signal analysis would be powered by complex predictive algorithms based on Machine Learning, capable of identifying subtle changes in heart function that the user may not notice. With early warnings, users would have the opportunity to consult a doctor for further diagnosis.
It’s important to note that the detection system may not rely on just one microphone. According to the patent, Apple could include a second microphone in the AirPods. The signals from both microphones would be compared to help identify any abnormal heart activity. In addition to detecting irregular heartbeats, future AirPods might also be capable of identifying blockages in the carotid artery. This would be achieved using an artificial neural network that analyzes data from both microphones to assess the user’s heart activity.
In recent months, rumors have suggested that Apple is preparing to introduce advanced health-tracking capabilities in AirPods, such as temperature sensing and ambient light sensors for monitoring heart activity. The latest patent offers a clearer view of Apple’s plans to bring life-saving health features to its devices.
The heart disease detection feature is expected to debut in the AirPods Pro 3 and the next-gen Powerbeats Pro, both likely launching next year. This timeline is supported by a code found in the iOS 18 RC, as reported by 9to5Mac, hinting at Apple’s upcoming release of AirPods with heart monitoring capabilities.
A string in the code states, “Wear both earbuds during workouts to track and send your heart rate to Apple Health. Manage in Bluetooth settings.”
It’s important to remember that this is just a patent, and Apple may experiment with various ideas that might not make it into the final product. However, given how AirPods and the Apple Watch have evolved from luxury items into essential health and fitness accessories, it’s reasonable to expect that Apple could eventually bring this concept to life.
0 Comments