How to use Apple Watch hypertension alerts — the feature that detects what you can't feel

How hypertension detection works

The Apple Watch uses its optical heart sensor to detect how blood vessels respond to each heartbeat. This isn't a continuous blood pressure measurement — it's pattern analysis over time.

An algorithm processes the sensor data to identify signs associated with hypertension. The watch looks for consistent patterns rather than isolated readings, which reduces false alerts.

Detection happens passively throughout the day as you wear your watch normally. You don't need to take manual measurements or initiate scans; the monitoring runs automatically in the background.

1. Check your watch supports hypertension alerts

Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and 11 all support hypertension tracking, along with Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Ultra 3. The feature uses existing optical heart sensors, so newer models aren't required.

You also need an iPhone 11 or later running iOS 26 to enable the feature. The hypertension data syncs through the Health app, which requires a compatible iPhone.

Older Apple Watch models don't support this feature. Series 8 and earlier lack the necessary sensor capabilities or processing power for hypertension pattern detection.

2. Confirm you meet eligibility requirements

Apple designed the feature for adults and hasn't validated it for younger users, so you must be over 22 years old to use hypertension alerts.

Pregnancy disqualifies you from using the feature, as blood pressure changes significantly during pregnancy and requires different monitoring approaches. The algorithm isn't designed for these physiological changes.

The feature is specifically for detecting undiagnosed high blood pressure, not monitoring known cases. You cannot have been previously diagnosed with hypertension to be eligible for this feature. If you already have a hypertension diagnosis, work with your doctor on appropriate monitoring.

Wrist detection must be enabled for the feature to function. Go to your Apple Watch settings and ensure wrist detection is turned on — this helps the watch know when it's actually being worn for accurate measurements.

3. Enable hypertension alerts in the Health app

Open the Health app on your iPhone and navigate to the Heart section, or tap your profile icon and find the health checklist. Look for the hypertension alerts option.

Follow the setup prompts to enable the feature. You'll need to confirm your age, pregnancy status, and hypertension diagnosis status before activation.

Your watch begins monitoring immediately after setup, but won't send any alerts for the first 30 days. This initial period lets the watch gather baseline data about your cardiovascular patterns.

What to do if you receive an alert

Don't panic. Hypertension is often symptomless, and catching it early is valuable. Apple estimates the feature will send alerts to one million people with undiagnosed hypertension in the first year.

Start a blood pressure log using a third-party cuff. The Apple Watch prompts you to measure your actual blood pressure with a proper monitor. Take readings for seven consecutive days and log them in the Health app.

Bring your logged readings to a healthcare professional for evaluation. Your doctor can confirm whether you have hypertension and discuss treatment options if necessary. The Apple Watch alert is a screening tool, not a diagnosis.