Apple is expected to include satellite messaging and blood pressure monitoring features in the next-generation smartwatch to be released next year.
Bloomberg reported on the 11th (local time) that Apple plans to add satellite connectivity features to the Apple Watch model launching next year, citing anonymous sources. With this feature, users can send messages via satellite in areas without cellular service, even if they do not have a mobile phone.
Apple first applied satellite communication features to the iPhone 14 last year. This feature allows users to make emergency calls in areas without cellular networks. Last year, the feature was upgraded to allow contact with emergency service providers for roadside assistance and fuel supply, and this year, users can send messages to anyone via iMessage.
Such functions have previously required a mobile phone, but it seems they will soon be possible with just a smartwatch. Apple plans to use satellites from Globalstar, with which it has established a collaborative relationship over the past few years.
Last month, Apple invested about $1.5 billion in Globalstar to acquire a 20% equity stake. After the news broke, Globalstar’s stock price soared about 15% on the afternoon of the 10th. Apple’s stock price rose by less than 1%.
Apple is also reportedly planning to introduce a feature to monitor users' high blood pressure as early as next year. This feature was planned to debut last year but has been delayed.
The blood pressure check feature expected to be added next year will operate similarly to Apple's sleep apnea detector. It will not provide systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements but will track the user's blood pressure status and notify them if high blood pressure is detected.
Apple is also developing a non-invasive blood sugar tracker, but it has not yet been completed. Samsung Electronics, Apple’s biggest smartphone competitor, is already selling devices with blood pressure check features, but Bloomberg reported that there are issues with accuracy and value correction.