Electronics / Monitors
Apple Hypertension Notification Feature
Learn how to use the Hypertension Notification Feature on your Apple Watch to identify patterns suggestive of hypertension.
Table of contents
About the Hypertension Notification Feature
The Hypertension Notification Feature (HTNF) is a software-only mobile medical application designed for Apple Watch. It analyzes photoplethysmography (PPG) data collected opportunistically by the watch to identify patterns that may be suggestive of hypertension. This feature is intended for over-the-counter use by adults aged 22 and older who have not been previously diagnosed with hypertension.
Important Safety Information
This feature is not a diagnostic tool and does not replace traditional medical methods for diagnosing or monitoring blood pressure. It cannot detect heart attacks, blood clots, strokes, atrial fibrillation, or other serious cardiovascular conditions. If you experience chest pain, pressure, or tightness, seek emergency medical attention immediately. The feature is not intended for use during pregnancy and cannot detect pregnancy-related hypertensive conditions. Always consult your doctor if you are not feeling well or if you notice changes in your health.
Getting Started and Usage
To use the feature, ensure your Apple Watch and iPhone are updated to the latest software versions and are properly paired. The feature must be onboarded via your iPhone. Once enabled, it runs in the background, analyzing data over a 30-day window. You will receive a notification only if the feature identifies possible hypertension based on this data. A new 30-day window begins automatically after the previous one concludes. For accurate analysis, the feature requires at least 14 days of data collected while you are awake within each 30-day period. Ensure your Apple Watch fits snugly on your wrist and is charged regularly.
Receiving a Notification
If you receive a notification, it is recommended that you monitor your blood pressure using an FDA-cleared device for seven days and discuss these findings with your healthcare provider. Your notification history is stored within the Health app on your iPhone or iPad, where you can export the data to share with your doctor. Note that this feature does not provide actual blood pressure measurements.
Factors Affecting Performance
Several factors can impact the feature's ability to identify patterns, including excessive motion, hand or finger movements, dark wrist tattoos, and cold temperatures that reduce blood flow to the skin. Additionally, the feature should not be used during medical procedures such as MRI, diathermy, or external defibrillation. It has not been tested on individuals with paced rhythms or atrial fibrillation.
Manufacturer information
Apple Inc.
Practical help
Common problems
No notification received
The feature may not have identified possible hypertension, or there was insufficient data (less than 14 days of awake data) in the 30-day window.
Data collection stopped
Check if your Apple Watch storage is full. Delete unwanted apps, music, or podcasts to free up space.
Inaccurate or missing data
Ensure the watch fits snugly on your wrist and avoid excessive motion or cold temperatures during data collection.
Before use
- Ensure you are 22 years of age or older.
- Confirm you have not been previously diagnosed with hypertension.
- Update your iPhone and Apple Watch to the latest iOS and watchOS.
- Pair your Apple Watch with your iPhone.
- Enable a passcode or Face ID on your devices for security.
- Wear your Apple Watch consistently throughout the day.
Specs in practice
- 30-day window
- The period over which the feature analyzes collected PPG data.
Model compatibility
- Requires Apple Watch Series 9 or later, or Ultra 2 or later.
- Excludes Apple Watch SE.
- Requires iPhone models compatible with the latest iOS.
Manual page author
David Miller
Documentation analyst
Organizes user manual content into clear summaries, with attention to model details, product context, and everyday usability.