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Apple watch: From health tracker to life saver?

Published March 14th, 2016 - 10:50 GMT
The Apple Watch would detect a change in the wearer’s body or in the environment around it and then send a signal to the phone. (File photo)
The Apple Watch would detect a change in the wearer’s body or in the environment around it and then send a signal to the phone. (File photo)

Apple is reportedly working on a new patent that could detect health emergencies on its own and also dial 911.

With wearable technology getting more and more popular these days, innovative ideas for such devices keep popping up.

Devices like the Apple Watch already works as a health tracker, but the latest patent from Apple will take healthcare to the next level. Apple has recently come up with an idea that could leverage the watch’s health sensors and communication features into emergency situations. This new patent describes a feature that allows the smartwatch to call for help if it thinks that the user is have a medical emergency.

This is how it works. The Apple Watch would detect a change in the wearer’s body or in the environment around it and then send a signal to the phone which would tell it to call for help. Additionally, Apple watch owners can also create a list of pre designated contacts that should be alerted in case of a situation. According to the patent, these lists can have two levels, one for family members, friends and personal contacts, and another for 911 and emergency services.

It is not confirmed if this feature would make it for the Apple Watch, but from the patent, Apple might be considering it.

 

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