Mental Health Tracking

Another recent leak suggests that Apple is also looking to bring mental health tracking to the Apple Watch by combining the existing heart rate sensors with software algorithms that could be used to detect anxiety and stress levels and even panic attacks.

Sources for the leaks suggest that this feature may also be connected to the blood oxygen monitoring capabilities, since it would be necessary to measure the oxygen levels in a person’s blood to try and determine if they’re hyperventilating. This could allow the Apple Watch to offer breathing exercises to help you calm down, as well as alerting you to stop whatever you’re doing, especially if it’s a high-risk activity like driving a car.

Other studies last year have also shown how an Apple Watch can be used to detect early signs of dementia, and even symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, although both of these are likely farther on the horizon, as they undoubtedly require a lot more research and study before they’re ready for prime time.