Apple is developing a screenless health and fitness tracker as it explores new wearable formats and responds to the growing popularity of devices focused purely on health monitoring. The company reportedly built prototypes, but has not yet decided whether to bring the product to market.
According to a Bloomberg report, “Apple spent several months examining the screenless fitness tracker category. The project has now reached the prototype stage and remains part of an internal technology investigation”.
The prototypes reportedly feature a thin fabric wristband paired with a sensor-equipped computing module. Unlike the Apple Watch, the device would not have a display for apps, notifications or other smartwatch functions. Apple is yet to confirm the project. The tech giant did not commit to releasing the device, making its eventual commercial availability uncertain.
The proposed tracker would put Apple in more direct competition with Whoop, whose wrist-worn devices focus on continuous health and fitness monitoring without a screen.
The shift also reflects broader changes in the wearable market. Oura managed to build a large user base around smart rings. Also, Google entered the screenless fitness segment with Fitbit Air. Garmin also sells display-free fitness bands.
Apple already adopted some features associated with these products. Its latest Watch and Health software include more advanced health measurements and readiness-oriented metrics, indicating a stronger focus on personalised fitness insights.
Bloomberg further said, “Apple executive chairman Tim Cook and services chief Eddy Cue have taken particular interest in the potential product. Cue assumed responsibility for Apple's health efforts late last year and pushed the company towards simpler health-focused wearable experiences.”
The development also involves members of Apple's Vision hardware team, which has worked on other emerging wearable products.
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