The Apple Watch Series 13 hasn't been officially announced yet, but it's already generating buzz. The reason is a potential new feature that Apple has been working on for years: non-invasive blood glucose monitoring directly via the smartwatch. According to current information, this feature could be available for the first time in an Apple Watch in 2027. This would be a major innovation for many users, especially those with diabetes.
The Apple Watch's health features have been steadily expanded in recent years. From heart rate monitoring and ECG to fall detection and blood oxygen monitoring, however, blood glucose monitoring is a feature that no Apple product has offered to date. There have been indications that Apple is researching this area since the Apple Watch Series 7. Now, there are increasing signs that the Apple Watch Series 13 could finally deliver. One analyst cites the feature as a key element of the 2027 model.
What did Jeff Pu say?
Analyst Jeff Pu has stated that the Apple Watch Series 13 could be the first Apple Watch with blood glucose monitoring. He cites this feature as a key feature of the 2027 model. Pu did not provide any specific technical details or comment on the source of his information. It remains unclear whether his forecast is based on internal information or his own assessment. In the past, his statements have been partly correct and partly inaccurate—so his forecasts should be viewed with caution.
Apple has been working on blood glucose monitoring for a long time
As early as 2021 – in connection with the Apple Watch Series 7 – there were indications that Apple was working on a blood glucose monitoring system. At the time, it was said that a market launch could be imminent. However, nothing came of it. In 2024, Apple tested a corresponding app, but only as part of health data collection studies. These tests were not intended for public use. Apple itself has never officially confirmed when or if the feature would be ready for market.
Legal situation could have an influence
Legal issues could pose an obstacle to new health features. For example, blood oxygen monitoring on Apple Watches is currently disabled in the US due to an ongoing patent dispute. If a similar situation arises with blood glucose monitoring, this could also lead to restrictions for certain markets.
Technique: Non-invasive, but how exactly?
The blood glucose measurement Apple is likely aiming for will be non-invasive—that is, without a blood draw or lancing device. How exactly Apple intends to implement this technically is unknown. There are speculations about optical sensors or other biochemical processes, but Apple hasn't released any official information on this. It's also still unclear whether the function will serve more as a guide or whether it can provide medically precise measurements.
Competition never sleeps
Apple isn't alone in its goal of enabling blood glucose monitoring without blood. The US startup PreEvnt introduced a device in January 2025 that works by analyzing breath. It's a clip-on device that works independently of the smartwatch. Whether Apple uses a similar process or prefers a different technology is currently unknown.
Apple Watch Series 13 remains speculation – for now
The indications of blood glucose monitoring in the Apple Watch Series 13 are clear, even if they haven't been officially confirmed yet. One analyst expects a launch in 2027, but so far there's no evidence from the supply chain or direct statements from insiders. Those hoping for this feature should therefore continue to wait and see. One thing is clear: If Apple manages to integrate reliable, non-invasive blood glucose monitoring into the Apple Watch, it would be a major step in wrist-based health monitoring. (Image: Shutterstock / Framesira)
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