Apple is testing continuous heart rate tracking for future Apple Watches

Apple is reportedly testing a feature that would enable continuous heart rate tracking on future Apple Watches, according to Bloomberg's Power On newsletter. Currently, the Apple Watch collects heart rate data during workouts, while readings outside exercise are taken intermittently. The new feature would keep the heart rate sensor active throughout the day, providing a more comprehensive view of the body's response to various activities.

This could include activities like long walks, physically demanding workdays, or short bursts of exercise, all contributing to the overall cardiovascular load. Competitors such as Whoop already utilize all-day heart rate data to gauge the strain on the user's body, an area where Apple has lagged behind. Enhanced continuous heart rate monitoring could also enable Apple to develop improved recovery, stress, and wellness metrics by providing richer underlying data.

However, the feature is still in the testing phase, and there are no guarantees it will make it to the Series 12 or Ultra 4 models. Battery life could potentially be a concern, as continuously running the heart rate sensor demands more power. Despite this, if Apple can optimize the feature without significantly draining the battery, it could greatly improve the Watch's ability to understand the user's body outside the gym.