Apple Watch Health Features Work on Older Models, But Heart Sensor Needs New Hardware
Apple announced new health features for its devices, but most do not require the upcoming Apple Watch Series 12 or Ultra 4, with many working on existing hardware. The key exception is the new heart rate sensor and health sensing system, which are exclusive to the newest watches. The redesigned Health app, featuring AI-generated insights and text summaries, requires an iPhone 15 Pro or newer with Apple Intelligence, not a new watch. The on-demand VO2max test works with any heart rate sensor, including third-party devices like Fitbit or Garmin, while the upgraded Workout Buddy needs an Apple Watch Series 9 or newer. These announcements bundle software updates with new hardware, but users with older devices can still access many features. The most significant upgrade—more frequent heart rate and HRV readings—is tied to the new S11 chip and sensor, limiting that capability to the Series 12 and Ultra 4.