As Apple Watch gains popularity among those preparing for pregnancy, its ovulation tracking feature is proving to be a game changer. The latest Series 10 model stands out in the smartwatch market with its larger, brighter, and thinner design, enhancing its health monitoring capabilities. Many users, particularly in the Chinese community, are beginning to see the Apple Watch as a ‘medical device’, particularly beneficial for seniors and women planning for pregnancy.

One of the key highlights of the new Series 10 is its ability to monitor sleep apnea. Utilizing accelerometer data, the watch tracks breathing interruptions during sleep and analyzes this information every 30 days to alert users if medical consultation is recommended. However, this feature requires approval from the FDA and other regulatory bodies before it’s officially classified as a medical device. Prior to this, Apple Watch already offered a robust suite of health tracking functionalities, including heart rate monitoring, ECG, and activity levels.

Many users cite health tracking as their primary reason for purchasing the Apple Watch. Ms. Li expressed her appreciation for the menstrual cycle tracking feature, especially its accurate ovulation predictions. This capability allows her to anticipate her menstrual cycle, enabling her to plan her daily activities accordingly. She mentioned that several friends have successfully used the ovulation predictions for conception, and similarly, this feature can also assist women in managing contraception. However, Ms. Li emphasized that the watch should be seen as an aid rather than a medical device, and one should not rely on it blindly.

Mr. Wang bought an Apple Watch specifically for his father due to its health features. He particularly values the fall detection and ECG functions. The ECG capability allows seniors to easily conduct heart rhythm checks, which can significantly help in the early detection of arrhythmias and other heart issues. The fall detection feature prompts users after a fall to see if they need assistance, and if there’s no response within a given time frame, it automatically contacts emergency services and shares the user’s location—an ideal safety measure for seniors living alone. Mr. Wang recounted an experience when he fell off his bike; the watch immediately detected the fall and prompted him to call for help, which gave him peace of mind, hoping it will also protect his family.

Moreover, for individuals managing chronic conditions like Type 1 diabetes, the Apple Watch proves to be beneficial. It can connect directly to FDA-approved glucose sensors, such as Dexcom, allowing users to monitor their glucose levels in real time from their wrist. Still, Mr. Wang cautioned that while the watch offers numerous helpful health functionalities, it’s not a substitute for professional medical advice and should be used under the guidance of healthcare providers.