According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the next Apple Watch Series 8 will include a body temperature sensor that can detect whether you have a fever. Instead of providing a precise reading, Gurman believes the watch should detect a rise in body temperature and prompt you to consult a doctor or use a thermometer.
According to Gurman, the body temperature sensor must still pass internal testing before being included in the Watch Series 8, as well as the anticipated “rugged” smartwatch for extreme sports players. The sensor is unlikely to be included in the next entry-level Apple Watch SE.
For nearly a year, rumors about a new body temperature sensor have circulated. Gurman first mentioned the possibility in June 2021, but then changed his mind in January of this year. He then reversed direction in April, stating that a body temperature sensor may be available “as early as this year.” Ming-Chi Kuo, a supply chain specialist, anticipates the sensor will be released later this year.
According to previous reports from Gurman and The Wall Street Journal, the body temperature sensor might potentially be used for fertility tracking – changes in body temperature could help someone estimate when they’re more likely to get pregnant, or forecast when they’ll have their period. Gurman’s most recent report only addressed fever detection, so it’s unclear how (or if) Apple intends to add cycle-tracking features.
Aside from the body temperature sensor, Gurman claims that any additional upgrades to the Apple Watch’s hardware will be “minimal,” and he also suggests that higher-end models may have a better display. Gurman projected last week that the Series 8 processor will have the same level of performance as the preceding S7 and S6 chips, with no upgrade probable until 2023. In terms of health-tracking features on other future products, Gurman believes that the latest model of AirPods Pro, which is supposed to be fitness-focused, will not have temperature or heart rate sensors this year.
