During the launch event of the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3, Apple revealed that with the watchOS 26 system update, it would introduce a high - blood - pressure alert feature for users of the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2. This means that some owners of older Apple Watch models can enjoy this new function without having to purchase new devices. The official version of watchOS 26 is scheduled to be rolled out on September 15.

This high - blood - pressure alert feature makes use of the optical heart rate sensor for automatic monitoring. It then evaluates the collected data over a 30 - day span. Once it detects a trend indicating high blood pressure, it will promptly notify the user, all without the user having to take any extra steps. This particular feature is designed for individuals aged 22 and over who have not been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are not pregnant. Its main purpose is to offer health risk warnings and contribute to lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases.