Apple tests screenless wearables and continuous heart rate monitoring

Apple is reportedly exploring several strategic shifts for its wearable lineup, including the development of a screenless device focused on continuous health monitoring. This move would position the company to compete more directly with specialized health trackers like Oura and Whoop.

To enhance its current smartwatch offerings, Apple is testing continuous heart rate monitoring for the Apple Watch. Unlike current models that primarily track heart rate during workouts or at periodic intervals, this new feature would collect data 24/7. This denser data collection aims to provide more detailed wellness metrics, such as improved resting heart rate accuracy and heart rate variability (HRV) tracking, which could power new software features in the Fitness and Health apps.

Other potential updates for future Apple Watch iterations include a return to ceramic cases, updated processors for better performance, and a broader product range that could include both ultra-premium models and more affordable entry-level versions.