Apple’s ambitious plan to develop a non-invasive blood sugar monitoring feature for the Apple Watch is still years away from realization, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Despite over 15 years of research and development, the company has yet to bring this technology to market.
The concept of non-invasive blood sugar monitoring dates back to the era of Steve Jobs. The goal was to equip the Apple Watch with sensors capable of detecting early signs of prediabetes. This would enable users to take proactive steps to reverse or prevent the condition. Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Early detection of prediabetes can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes.
According to Bloomberg, Apple has been testing a health app focused on diabetes prevention. Gurman reported last October that this app could serve as a foundation for future products related to blood sugar management. However, it is not expected to become a standalone consumer product.
Current blood sugar testing methods typically require skin penetration, but Apple is exploring a non-invasive solution. The company is developing a silicon photonic chip that uses optical absorption spectroscopy and lasers to measure glucose concentration under the skin without the need for pricking. This technology aims to offer a painless, continuous way to monitor blood sugar levels.
As of 2023, Apple’s blood sugar monitoring research has reached the proof-of-concept stage, with a functional prototype reportedly completed. However, the device remains too large to fit into the compact form factor of the Apple Watch. Apple has reportedly assigned hundreds of engineers to the project within its Exploratory Design Group (XDG).
In addition to blood sugar monitoring, Gurman shared that Apple is also considering launching a new AI-driven health coaching feature. This feature would offer personalized health advice and lifestyle improvement recommendations. It could eventually become part of the broader Apple Health+ service, further enhancing Apple’s health ecosystem.
Despite the setbacks, Apple’s ongoing efforts demonstrate its commitment to revolutionizing personal health management through its devices. However, consumers will have to wait several more years before the company’s non-invasive blood sugar monitoring feature becomes a reality.
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