The segment of wearables has evolved quite a lot in recent years. Rather than being just mere smartphone companions, their great triumph card was found when companies started to make their health/sports companions. The brands have been evolving their products with new health-centric features. Back in 2020, we saw the arrival of watches with SpO2 sensors to read the Oxygen levels in users’ blood. Also, this sensor can be used to monitor users’ stress and even track their menstrual cycle. Another notable feature is the ECG. Now brands are working to deliver blood glucose and pressure readings. Fitbit has made some advancements in this regard.
A blood pressure reader is coming for Fitbit wearables
In 2021, Fitbit began research to develop a blood pressure system without the arm-cuff method. The study was conducted with many Fitbit Sense users. The goal was to determine how pulse arrival time can be used to measure blood pressure. Now, the Google company has filed a patent for a new blood pressure wearable technology. It will soon debut with a new smartwatch.
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The documents show a Fitbit wearable with a pressure sensor in the display. It will simulate a blood pressure cuff. To measure the blood pressure, the wearable will have to pressure the sensor on the panel with their index finger – as it’s where the radial artery is located. The mechanism simulates a traditional blood pressure cuff. The traditional system is put on the user’s arm and inflated until no blood can flow through the brachial artery. The device measures the strength of the heart rate against the pressure and then delivers the blood pressure numbers.
The Fitbit wearable will give users instructions to apply the right amount of pressure. Also, a PPG sensor will measure the heartbeat. It will allow the device to provide systolic and diastolic readings. Systolic readings refer to the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, and diastolic readings can be defined as the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
For now, there is no forecast for the release of this tech. However, we can expect news later this year, considering the last year’s schedule, Fitbit will update some of its lineups by September.
