Apple has unveiled groundbreaking health features in its latest software updates, iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and watchOS 10. These updates introduce innovative tools and experiences across platforms, focusing on mental health and vision health. The new features empower users to gain valuable insights into their well-being while ensuring privacy remains a top priority.
Enhanced Mental Health Features
Apple’s iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 bring exciting mental health features to users, enabling them to track and log their emotions and moods. By reflecting on their mental states, users can develop emotional awareness and resilience. With the help of valuable insights provided by the Health app, users can identify factors contributing to their state of mind, such as associations and lifestyle choices. Additionally, the Health app offers access to anxiety and depression assessments, allowing users to gauge their risk levels and connect with appropriate resources.
Vision Health Promotion
Myopia, or nearsightedness, affects a significant portion of the global population. Apple’s watchOS 10 introduces vision health features that encourage behaviors known to reduce the risk of myopia. Users can now measure the time spent in daylight using the ambient light sensor on their Apple Watch. This information is then displayed in the Health app, allowing users to track their exposure to daylight. Moreover, the Screen Distance feature, leveraging the TrueDepth camera, prompts users to maintain a healthy viewing distance from their devices, reducing the risk of myopia and digital eyestrain.
The Health App Arrives on iPad
With the release of iPadOS 17, the Health app makes its debut on the iPad, offering users a comprehensive and centralized hub for managing their health and fitness data. Users can track medications, utilize Cycle Tracking, log emotions and moods, access health records, and more—all from their iPad. The Health app on iPad features an optimized design for the larger display, including interactive charts, Trends, and Highlights. Developers can leverage HealthKit on iPad to create innovative health and fitness experiences, adhering to Apple’s stringent privacy and data security protocols.
Privacy and Security
Apple places utmost importance on user privacy, ensuring that health and fitness data is secure and protected. Health data stored on iPhone and iPad is encrypted on-device when locked with a passcode, Touch ID, or Face ID. Synced data on iCloud is also encrypted during transit and storage. Apple cannot read health and activity data stored on devices with two-factor authentication and a passcode. The Health app allows users to grant explicit permission for sharing data with third parties, offering granular control over the types of data shared and with whom.
Conclusion
Apple’s latest software updates, iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and watchOS 10, introduce powerful health features that address mental health and vision health concerns. By incorporating science-backed insights, Apple empowers users to take control of their well-being. With enhanced privacy measures, users can confidently utilize these innovative tools to gain valuable health insights and support informed decision-making. The updates will be available this fall as a free software update for eligible devices, reinforcing Apple’s commitment to providing inclusive and holistic health solutions for its users.
Note: The availability of features may vary based on regions and languages. Visit apple.com/ios/ios-17-preview for more information and updates.
