Apple is encouraging users to make their Apple Watch a constant companion, even during sleep. The tech giant believes that wearing the smartwatch overnight is important for unlocking the full potential of its upcoming Vitals app.
According to Apple’s VP of Health, Dr. Sumbul Desai, the Vitals app will provide users with a daily snapshot of their health based on metrics like heart rate, skin temperature, respiratory rate, and blood oxygen levels. These metrics are most informative when collected during sleep because they are less influenced by daytime activities.
Desai emphasized that while some users may already sleep with their Apple Watch, the company is aware of the growing popularity of smart rings and is working to make the smartwatch a more appealing sleep companion.
“We don’t say, ‘You need to go talk to a doctor,’” she added, referring to the language used on Vitals. “We’re really thoughtful about not unnecessarily prompting you to go to the doctor.”
The Vitals app will compare a user’s current health metrics to their personal baseline instead of providing a general score. If multiple metrics deviate from the norm, the app will send notifications with potential explanations for the changes. However, Apple emphasizes that these notifications are not intended to replace medical advice.
While the idea of wearing a smartwatch to bed might be a new concept for many, Apple believes that the benefits of the Vitals app make it worthwhile. The app will be released alongside a future Apple Watch watchOS 11 update.