Apple Launches Sleep Apnea Notifications, Hearing Test Features in India

Apple has launched two major health features for users in India, bringing sleep apnea notifications to compatible Apple Watch models and a clinically validated Hearing Test to the AirPods Pro.



The sleep apnea feature uses the accelerometer built into supported Apple Watch models to detect small wrist movements associated with interruptions to normal breathing patterns during sleep. Every 30 days, the system analyzes breathing disturbance data and notifies users if it detects consistent signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea. Users can also export a detailed PDF report to share with a healthcare provider.


Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, preventing the body from getting enough oxygen. Apple notes the condition affects more than one billion people worldwide and often goes undiagnosed. Over time, untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cardiac issues.



Apple says the notification algorithm was developed using advanced machine learning and an extensive dataset of clinical-grade sleep apnea tests, then validated through a large-scale clinical study. In addition to notifications, users can track nightly Breathing Disturbances in the Health app to help assess overall sleep restfulness. Factors such as alcohol, medications, and sleep position can influence the results.

Alongside the Apple Watch update, Apple is also bringing the Hearing Test to the AirPods Pro 3. Based on standard pure-tone audiometry, users can check their hearing levels at home in about five minutes using supported AirPods Pro models paired with a compatible iPhone or iPad.



After completing the test, users receive an easy-to-understand summary showing hearing loss levels in each ear, a classification, and recommendations. The results, including an audiogram, are stored securely in the Health app and can be shared with a healthcare provider.


Apple's vice president of Health and Fitness, Dr. Sumbul Desai, said the features are designed to help users detect conditions they may not know they have. Sleep apnea notifications are intended for adults without a prior diagnosis, while the Hearing Test requires AirPods Pro 2 or later running the latest firmware alongside a compatible iPhone or iPad.