Smartwatches and fitness trackers have made great strides in the past several years. Smartwatches have transitioned from mere smartphone companions to serious players in the health and fitness game.
Google-Backed Patent to Introduce Novel Blood Pressure Measurement Wearable
According to the story by Giz China, they are now featuring innovative technologies such as SpO2 sensors, ECG readings, and more, allowing users to track and monitor an array of health metrics with greater ease and accuracy. Now, the next big frontier in wearables is blood pressure.
Fitness giant Fitbit has been at the forefront of blood pressure research, making great advancements with its Fitbit Sense smartwatch. The new Google-backed patent will take this research to the next level, introducing a new blood pressure measurement wearable designed to measure individuals' blood pressure without needing to use the traditional arm-cuff method.
Introducing a Pressure Sensor for Non-intrusive Blood Pressure Monitoring
As spotted on Patent Scope, this patent indicates that a new smartwatch with blood pressure monitoring features could be on the horizon. The possibilities with such technology appear significant. With non-intrusive and accurate blood pressure monitoring and tracking available on their wrist, users can gain greater insight and control over their health and fitness.
The health potential and implications of such a technology cannot be overstated. Wearables are becoming more and more commonplace in this digital age; as technology continues to evolve, so do the features found in wearables. Now, Fitbit is introducing a pressure sensor in their displays which aims to simulate a blood pressure cuff.
Utilizing the Pressure Sensor to Measure Blood Pressure
By simply pressing their index finger onto the panel of their wearable device, an individual can measure their blood pressure and gain systolic and diastolic readings. The pressure sensor works like a traditional blood pressure cuff; users place the cuff on their arm, and then the device inflates until it cannot flow through the brachial artery.
The device measures the strength of the heart rate against the pressure and then provides the user with their blood pressure numbers. Fitbit's technology is unique because users are not required to use a traditional blood pressure cuff; instead, they can simply press their index finger onto the pressure sensor.
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The Upcoming Fitbit Lineup: Featuring Pressure Sensors and PPG Sensors
Fitbit will also give users instructions on applying the right amount of pressure when using the pressure sensor, as explained further in an article by Notebook Check. In addition, the device includes a PPG sensor which can measure an individual's heartbeat. This allows the device to provide accurate readings and readings that are more detailed.
While there is no word yet on when this tech will be released, it can be expected by September this year. An upcoming Fitbit lineup will likely include this technology and make it commercially available for users.
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