A recent Apple patent application indicates that your AirPods may soon be able to help monitor your heart health. First reported by Patently Apple, the application highlights a method of health monitoring via audio signal generated by a device worn in your ear. Once generated, the signal data would be run through an algorithm to detect characteristics of certain heart pathologies like bradycardia (an abnormally low heart rate) and tachycardia (an abnormally high heart rate).
In early September, 9to5mac also reported evidence of code in iOS 18 that demonstrated Apple had been experimenting with new AirPods health monitoring sensors for upcoming AirPods Pro 3 and Powerbeats Pro 2 models.
Notifications and Dual-Device Monitoring
Per the patent application, if abnormal heart conditions were found, a message, sound, or both would activate on the wearer’s device. The application also shows Apple could rely on other wearable devices (perhaps an Apple Watch, for example) using a technology known as Pulse Transit Time (PTT).
With this method of detection, pulse activity would be measured on two devices, and the data recorded would be compared for abnormalities. Additionally, the data would be logged into the Apple Health app for a clearer overall picture of how your heart is behaving. It’s an exciting prospect, especially if you’re the health-conscious type.
According to the CDC, heart disease is still a leading cause of death in the US. That means if these new features work as intended, then they may aid in early detection of heart pathology, and could potentially even save lives. With the recent addition of hearing aid capability for AirPods, it’s clear that Apple is recognizing the need for additional health-related features in its products.
The company is expected to release the AirPods Pro 3 and Powerbeats Pro 2 models sometime in 2025. However, the exact dates of the device rollouts, and the confirmation that these health features will be included, are still up in the air. It’s also unclear whether the features are currently capable of working as intended. Still, if you’re someone concerned about your heart, this new Apple technology could offer an innovative way to keep tabs on the health of your ticker.
