Programme Overview
Apple has officially launched the Apple Health Study, a new initiative designed to explore how everyday technology can help predict, detect, and manage health and wellbeing.
The study is available through the Research app and takes a holistic approach by analysing connections between different aspects of health, including physical, mental, and lifestyle factors.
Collaboration
The study is being conducted in partnership with Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a leading research hospital affiliated with Harvard Medical School.
Purpose
The goal of the study is to understand how data from devices such as:
- iPhone
- Apple Watch
- AirPods
can be used to:
- Predict health changes
- Detect early warning signs
- Monitor ongoing conditions
- Improve overall wellbeing
What It Explores
This long-term (longitudinal) study covers multiple health areas, including:
- Physical activity
- Aging
- Cardiovascular and circulatory health
- Mental health
- Cognitive function
- Hearing
- Menstrual health
- Metabolic health
- Mobility
- Neurological health
- Respiratory health
- Sleep
It will also examine how different aspects of health are connected, such as:
- The impact of mental health on heart rate
- The relationship between sleep and exercise
How It Works
Participants can join directly through the Research app on their iPhone.
- Participation is voluntary
- Users choose what data to share
- Data can include Apple and third-party device information
- Participants can stop sharing or withdraw at any time
Apple does not access personally identifiable information provided during the study.
Previous Research
The study builds on earlier Apple research initiatives, including:
- Apple Women’s Health Study
- Apple Hearing Study
- Apple Heart and Movement Study
Together, these studies have involved over 350,000 participants across the United States.
Why It Matters
The study aims to improve early detection of health changes and support a more proactive approach to healthcare.
For example:
- Identifying early hearing changes may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline
- Detecting subtle physical or emotional signals can improve long-term health outcomes
Availability
- Open for enrollment in the United States
- Available via the Research app on iPhone
- Participants must meet age requirements and complete consent