Apple has just started a new study to determine whether its smartwatch can detect respiratory diseases such as coronavirus or influenza. To conduct this study, the Cupertino-based company partnered with the University of Washington and the Seattle Influenza Study.
The study was announced at Apple Time Flies in September last year, but hasn’t started yet. It’s done, as Apple Insider notes.
This study aims to see if the information gathered from the Apple Watch and iPhone can detect early signs of respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19. If you qualify and choose to participate, you’ll be given an Apple Watch to wear. The watch collects information about your health and activities. You’re asked each week and every month to answer simple questions from a study in the Apple Research app on your iPhone about breathing and lifestyle problems, “according to the Seattle flu study.
Only Seattle residents can participate in the study, which is expected to last up to 6 months. Participants will receive an Apple Watch for research to wear at all times, day and night.
This study follows several scientific studies that have shown that the Apple Watch can detect the coronavirus up to a week before the onset of symptoms.
Besides Covid-19, Apple’s smartwatch may be useful in detecting other types of respiratory illnesses, which is the aim of the study. Given Apple’s commitment to the healthcare sector and the results of various studies, it is not surprising that the American firm is taking part in this new study. If the results are conclusive, this could be a major selling point for the firm at the apple.