Apple Watch’s New Hypertension Alert Feature: How to Enable It

Step-by-Step Guide to Apple Watch Hypertension Notifications In the Year 2025

With its latest update in 2025, Apple has rolled out a new Hypertension Notifications feature for its popular smartwatch line, Apple Watch. This feature is designed to passively analyse heart-sensor data collected over time and alert you if the watch detects patterns that may indicate chronic high blood pressure (hypertension).

Rather than delivering blood-pressure readings directly, the watch looks for consistent signals over a 30-day period. If those signals match the threshold for possible hypertension, you’ll receive a notification prompting further monitoring or a check-up with your doctor.

Which Apple Watch Models Support This Feature

Not all Apple Watch models support Hypertension Notifications. As of 2025, the feature is available on:

• Apple Watch Series 9 and later (Series 9, 10, 11, etc.)
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 and newer Ultra models

Older models and the Apple Watch SE do not support this feature.In addition to the watch itself, you’ll need a paired iPhone (iPhone 11 or later) running the latest compatible iOS version. Wrist Detection must also be enabled.

Step-by-Step: How to Enable Hypertension Alerts

If your devices meet the requirements, you can enable the new feature by following these steps:

• Open the Health app on your iPhone. 
• Tap your profile icon in the top-right corner. 
• Under the “Features” section, select Health Checklist.
• Tap on Hypertension Notifications (or “Hypertension Alert”) and choose “Set Up.”
• Confirm your age and whether you have previously been diagnosed with hypertension (i.e. you should be 22 or older, not pregnant, and not have a prior hypertension diagnosis).
• Follow the on-screen prompts to understand how the feature works, then tap Done.

Once enabled, the watch will begin collecting data passively. After approximately 30 days of continuous wear, it may trigger an alert if it detects patterns consistent with elevated blood pressure.

What the Alerts Mean And What They Don’t

If you receive a hypertension alert, it does not mean you have a confirmed diagnosis. The feature is not a replacement for clinical measurement or a medical diagnosis. Instead, it's a warning that your heart-rate/vascular data shows signs that are often associated with chronic high blood pressure.

Upon receiving an alert, Apple recommends logging actual blood-pressure readings for about 7 days using a standard cuff (third-party blood pressure monitor) and sharing the results with a qualified healthcare professional.

In short: think of the Apple Watch as an early warning tool, not a final verdict.

Why This Feature Matters Especially in 2025

Hypertension is often called a “silent killer” because many people don’t realise they have high blood pressure until serious complications arise. By turning your Apple Watch into a long-term health monitor, this new feature helps detect possible hypertension early, giving wearers the chance to take preventive action.

For many users — especially those who may not regularly monitor their blood pressure — this can be a life-changing alert. It underscores how wearable tech is evolving from fitness trackers into genuine health companions.

Final Take: Worth Turning On With Awareness

If you own a compatible Apple Watch and meet the criteria, enabling Hypertension Notifications is a simple, low-effort way to add an extra layer of health awareness to your routine. Just remember this: the feature is not a substitute for regular check-ups or proper medical diagnostics.