Apple health tracker release date news 2016: Apple to release health gadget next year

Chrisbelt Medina Friday, August 12, 2016

Apple's rumored health tracker is reportedly separate from Watch which also has fitness and health tracking features. | Apple

Apple is reportedly preparing to enter the smart health tracker market next year with a slew of revolutionary features that monitor and measure biometric factors like heart rate and blood sugar level. The wearable device is specifically designed for fitness buffs and health-conscious users.

The news broke out after Taiwan-based Economic Daily News reported that such a "killer new product" is on its way for a 2017 release to coincide with iPhone's 10th anniversary. As described in the news article, the Cupertino-based giant's health labs will be making a serious dent into the healthcare market with its innovative and tech-driven health labs. The media outlet added that the said device will be integrated into the smart device maker's highly advanced HealthKit protocol and Health app for iOS.

Moreover, the unannounced health tracker gadget will be equipped with accurate technology for collecting users' sensitive personal health data and other fitness-related pertinent information. Apple Watch also boasts similar features. However, the rumored upcoming device will have better health-centric functionality than its Watch counterpart.

Meanwhile, Patently Apple earlier discovered a patent that gives credible weight to the rumored health tracker gadget. The patent has all the elements of what to expect from the rumored device such as the technology to measure electrocardiographic information. So far, Apple remains tight-lipped on the matter and refuses to confirm.

If such reports prove accurate, then Apple is eyeing a long-term inroad to the growing health industry. Already, the tech firm is already operating a number of biometric labs operating around the clock with doctors and other medical professionals. Furthermore, company CEO Tim Cook has previously hinted that Apple will be introducing an entirely new device which requires government approval through the Food and Drug Administration.

"We started looking at wellness, and that took us to pulling a string to think about research; then we pulled a string a little further, and it took us to some patient care stuff; and we pulled a string that's taking us into some other stuff," Apple's chief executive said as reported by Value Walk.

Could this health tracker gadget be Apple's next big thing?