According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Waterloo in Canada, the Apple Apple Watch can accurately predict stress levels.
Using the ECG sensor in the Apple Watch Series 6, researchers found a strong link between ECG data, including the ability of the heart to accelerate and decelerate, and the stress levels reported by participants during readings. The researchers then used this information to develop machine learning algorithms to create a predictive model.
These stress models were said to have a “high level of accuracy,” and the study concluded that the Apple Watch has “promising” potential for stress prediction, suggesting that as the device collects additional health information, such as sleep and activity information, even more, data points could be integrated into the stress model to improve its predictive accuracy.
The researchers speculate that the Apple Watch could be used to help with mental health care by providing activities such as breathing exercises to counteract stress signals and provide an early response to changes in mental health. Competing devices from Samsung, Fitbit and Garmin already offer stress-scoring capabilities, but Apple has yet to implement such a feature in its health app.
