New Vitals function in watchOS 11 is intended to detect illnesses in advance

With watchOS 11, Apple is bringing a number of new health features to its smartwatches. One of the most exciting features is probably the new vital signs function called Vitals – which, however, can only be used in full on newer Apple Watch models.

Vitals: New function for the Apple Watch

Heart and breathing rate as well as temperature, sleep duration and blood oxygen level are measured. Vitals combines this data into an overall picture that is created after a few days. To do this, the Apple Watch must also be worn regularly while sleeping.

Over time, the vital signs app detects and points out deviations from normal values. As users are now reporting on Reddit, the function should also be able to predict illnesses.

Deviations indicate illness

For example, deviations (outliers) in body temperature and breathing would indicate that a cold is approaching. I gave the Vitals app relevant information a few days before the users themselves felt sick.

Apple itself stated when it released watchOS 11 that Vitals will notify you when two or more readings are outside of the normal range. There could be tips if this deviation indicates an existing illness or a life circumstance.

For example, alcohol consumption, a change in altitude and an acute cold could explain certain deviating measurement data. The Apple Watch then only advises you to see a doctor or gives general tips for optimizing your lifestyle.

Is Vitals an early warning system for illness?

So far, Apple has not said anything about it being suitable as a kind of early warning system for illnesses. But that is not absurd.

Finally, increased temperatures or faster breathing could indicate that the body could already be fighting against possible pathogens. However, it is not said that the people themselves recognize this as an acute illness.

Whoop: early detection of corona disease

The fitness bracelet provider Whoop was already able to prove that corona disease could be detected a few days before the outbreak by measuring heart rates and corresponding deviations, as heise.de writes.

On the other hand, according to Reddit commenters, it is also possible for vital signs to deviate from the norm without resulting in illness. More detailed studies will have to show to what extent such an early warning actually works.

Advantage of early detection of diseases

It would then be possible for those affected to take care of themselves and their bodies or provide them with additional vitamin C in order to alleviate the following symptoms. In addition, even without symptoms of illness, you could go to your home office as a precaution and avoid large gatherings of people so as not to infect anyone.