Apple Research app’s latest update introduces family history sharing،
In 2019, Apple unveiled its innovative research app, allowing Apple Watch and iPhone users to participate in medical research studies. Fast forward to now, the tech giant has rolled out a new version of the app.
According to 9to5Mac, the latest version 5.0 introduces a remarkable update. Previously, studies were personal, allowing users to share only their individual health data with researchers. With this update, Apple now allows studies to request and users to share their family medical history when available.
Since iOS 16, users can already share their health data stored in the Apple Health app with friends and family. However, the latest update to the Apple Research app doesn’t stop there. Another feature on the horizon is the ability to invite friends to participate in specific studies, thus promoting a more collaborative approach.
The Apple Research app currently supports three separate studies: a women’s health study in partnership with Harvard, a heart and movement study in collaboration with the American Heart Association, and a hearing study conducted in partnership with the University of Michigan. Potential participants must verify their eligibility before joining a specific study, with the app ensuring user consent before collecting health data.
Apple notes that a significant number of people (200,000) are actively contributing to groundbreaking research using the Apple Watch and iPhone. As wearable technology advances, researchers have access to a wealth of data about our health. Samsung recently analyzed 716 million nights of sleep behavior from Samsung Health and Galaxy Watch users worldwide, revealing a universal decline in sleep duration.
Earlier this year, Apple highlighted the Apple Watch’s role in long-term global health research. Scientists from the United States, Europe and Australia are using it to better understand the consequences of various treatments. The intersection of technology and health research continues to pave the way for a deeper understanding of our well-being.
