Research shows that Apple Apple Watch can accurately predict stress levels

CTOnews.com, Dec. 30-Apple's Apple Watch can accurately predict stress levels, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Waterloo in Canada.

CTOnews.com learned that using Apple Watch Series 6's ECG sensors, the researchers found a close link between ECG data, including the ability of the heart to accelerate and decelerate, and the stress levels reported by participants during readings. Then the researchers use this information to develop machine learning algorithms and create a prediction model.

These stress models are said to have a "high level of accuracy", and the study concluded that Apple's Apple Watch has "promising" potential in stress prediction, and suggested that because the device collects additional health information, such as sleep and activity information, even more data points can be integrated into the stress model to improve its prediction accuracy.

The researchers speculate that Apple Watch could be used to help with mental health care, provide activities such as breathing exercises to counteract stress signals and respond early to changes in mental health. Competing devices from Samsung, Fitbit and Garmin already offer stress scoring, but Apple has not yet done so in its health apps.