A future Fitbit device could feature non-invasive blood pressure monitoring but don’t get too excited just yet.
Fitbit is reportedly working on a new way to measure blood pressure using a non-invasive sensor system, according to a recently leaked patent.
The filing (patent no. 12,239,424 B2) suggests that Fitbit’s next wearable—potentially a smartwatch or a smart ring—could use pressure and optical sensors to track blood flow and artery stiffness.
This would be a game-changer in the smartwatch industry, as traditional blood pressure monitors rely on a cuff-based system.
However, there are reasons to be skeptical about whether this technology will appear in a Fitbit device anytime soon.
Fitbit New Patent Hints At Blood Pressure Tracking
The latest Fitbit patent, first spotted by Gadgets & Wearables, describes a system where biometric sensors detect small mechanical changes in the skin caused by blood moving through the arteries.
The wearable would then combine this data with PPG (photoplethysmography) sensors, which use light to measure blood flow and pressure.
How Would It Work?
- Pressure sensors would detect artery stiffness and changes in blood flow.
- PPG sensors (already found in most smartwatches) would measure blood volume changes.
- The device could apply slight pressure to the skin using inflatable or mechanically controlled elements—similar to how a traditional BP cuff tightens.
This suggests that Fitbit’s next smartwatch or smart ring could offer blood pressure readings without a cuff, making it more convenient for daily health tracking.
Fitbit’s History With Blood Pressure Monitoring
This isn’t the first time Fitbit has tried to introduce blood pressure tracking.
In 2023, the company filed a similar patent for an FDA-approved watch band that could inflate like a traditional BP cuff.
However, this feature never made it to production.
Fitbit has been conducting blood pressure research studies for years, but none of its devices currently offer this feature.
Challenges Fitbit Faces in Bringing BP Tracking to a Wearable:
Regulatory Approval: Blood pressure tracking requires FDA approval, which can take years.
Accuracy Issues: Apple and Samsung have struggled to perfect wrist-based BP tracking.
Battery Life Concerns: Extra sensors and pressure mechanisms could drain battery life faster.
While the patent looks promising, it’s unclear if or when Fitbit will launch a device with this technology.
Will Fitbit’s Next Device Be a Smartwatch or Smart Ring?
Fitbit’s patent mentions smartwatch and ring form factors, leading to speculation that the company might be working on a Fitbit smart ring for health tracking.
Fitbit Smart Ring – A Possibility?
- Previous rumors have suggested Fitbit is developing a smart ring to compete with the Oura Ring.
- The patent describes a wearable with pressure sensors and optical tracking—which could fit a ring or watch.
- A smart ring would be ideal for 24/7 health tracking, including BP monitoring, sleep tracking, and stress management.
However, the inflatable pressure system described in the patent makes a smartwatch a more likely candidate for Fitbit’s BP tracking ambitions.
Will Fitbit Beat Apple & Samsung to Blood Pressure Monitoring?
Fitbit isn’t the only company exploring wrist-based blood pressure tracking.
- Samsung has introduced cuffless BP tracking in its Galaxy Watch series, but it requires calibration with a traditional cuff.
- Apple has been researching blood pressure monitoring for years but has yet to release a feature.
If Fitbit can successfully develop an FDA-approved, cuffless BP monitor, it will have a huge advantage over competitors in the smartwatch space.
Final Thoughts – Is Fitbit’s Blood Pressure Tracking Coming Soon?
Fitbit’s new patent for cuffless blood pressure monitoring is an exciting development, but it’s far from a confirmed feature in upcoming devices. While the technology could revolutionize health tracking, regulatory approvals, accuracy concerns, and battery life challenges may delay its arrival.
If Fitbit successfully integrates blood pressure tracking into a smartwatch or smart ring, it could gain a significant edge over competitors like Apple and Samsung. However, history suggests that many patents never make it to production, so it’s best to stay informed and wait for an official announcement.
For now, if blood pressure monitoring is a must-have feature, you may need to look at other options or wait until Fitbit makes its next move.
What are your thoughts on Fitbit’s potential BP-tracking device? Let us know in the comments.
FAQ – Fitbit’s Blood Pressure Tracking
Can Fitbit currently track blood pressure?
No. Fitbit has conducted research, but no current device offers FDA-approved blood pressure tracking.
