The recently filed patent by Apple for a potentially life-saving feature on the Apple Watch has caught the attention of tech enthusiasts and consumers alike. This new feature is aimed at detecting if a person may be drowning and sending an SOS message to selected contacts in such a situation. The patent, filed in March 2024, outlines a system that utilizes a combination of software and hardware intelligence to distinguish between normal underwater behavior and distress signals.
The key to this feature is the innovative concept of “irregular underwater behavior detection” as coined by Apple. By using the motion sensors in the Apple Watch, the device can algorithmically differentiate between regular swimming and a person in distress. Factors such as heart rate and blood oxygenation levels also play a crucial role in identifying potential issues. An increase in heart rate and a decrease in blood oxygenation can serve as clear indicators of a problem, prompting the Apple Watch to send out an alert.
Apple envisions this feature as a sort of “digital pool attendant” that can potentially save lives in various scenarios beyond just drowning. The system could also be instrumental in alerting nearby devices or individuals about someone experiencing a heart attack or a child wandering into deep water unsupervised. The patent suggests that this solution is cost-effective compared to other safety measures like camera-based systems, which may not be suitable for all environments.
While a patent filing does not guarantee that a feature will be integrated into a device, this latest development from Apple aligns with the company’s recent focus on safety features for the Apple Watch. In 2022, Apple introduced Crash Detection, a feature that can recognize when the wearer has been involved in a car accident. This capability is made possible by the high-quality motion sensor hardware in the Apple Watch, which can detect the specific acceleration patterns associated with car crashes.
This new drowning detection feature represents a natural progression in Apple’s commitment to enhancing safety features on its wearable devices. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative algorithms, Apple aims to provide users with a reliable tool for monitoring their well-being and quickly alerting others in case of emergencies. As the tech giant continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with wearable technology, consumers can look forward to even more advanced features that prioritize their safety and convenience.
