If you’re browsing for a new smartwatch, you might want to hold off on any major decisions. New rumours suggest that the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 4 could land with a major redesign and upgraded blood pressure monitoring features.
According to DigiTimes, Apple is working on a new high blood pressure notification system that uses the optical heart-rate sensor to analyse how blood vessels respond to each heartbeat. If the watch detects abnormal patterns associated with hypertension, it could then alert the wearer. The feature is reportedly under FDA review.
Apple already introduced Hypertension Notifications with watchOS 26 and recent Apple Watch models, using overnight optical sensor data collected over time to warn users about potential signs of high blood pressure. This newer version sounds like a more advanced evolution of that system rather than a completely new sensor.
If true, it’s a different method to some existing solutions. The Huawei Watch D2, for example, already offers blood pressure monitoring – but instead of relying purely on optical sensors, Huawei’s watch uses a micro-airbag inflation system built into the strap – effectively creating a cuff-like pressure system around your wrist during readings.
Huawei’s approach is much closer to a traditional blood pressure monitor, while Apple’s rumoured setup sounds like it focuses more on trend detection and abnormal pattern alerts.
The report also claims that the Apple Watch Ultra 4 could receive a redesign, with earlier supply-chain rumours pointing to a new rear sensor layout featuring eight sensors arranged in a ring formation.
As always with supply-chain leaks, it’s worth treating all of this with caution, as nothing has been officially verified or confirmed. Apple is expected to unveil the Watch 4 Ultra alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the rumoured foldable iPhone Ultra in September, so expect more news over the coming months.
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