Huawei's latest Watch D3 offers medical-quality blood pressure monitoring right on your wrist.

      Most mainstream wearables still estimate your blood pressure, either by using an optical sensor or requiring periodic calibration with an actual cuff. Huawei is adopting a more reliable, hardware-based method with its new Watch D3. Initially showcased at the ESC Congress in Munich earlier this week, the smartwatch is now officially launched and offers medical-grade blood pressure monitoring directly from your wrist.

      How the Huawei Watch D3 measures blood pressure

      Unlike most smartwatches, such as the Pixel Watch 5 and Samsung's Galaxy Watch 9, which use an optical PPG sensor to estimate blood pressure, the Watch D3 eliminates the guesswork. It incorporates a mechanical airbag in the strap that applies pressure on your wrist, simulating traditional blood pressure monitoring devices that use an inflatable cuff. A high-precision sensor measures this pressure, processed with an adaptive measurement algorithm to provide an accurate reading rather than an estimation.

      No other leading smartwatch employs this method. The Pixel Watch 5 utilizes AI to analyze data from its PPG sensor and generates a monthly Blood Pressure Trends report instead of offering real-time readings. Google clarifies that this feature is intended for general wellness purposes and should not be interpreted as a clinical measurement. Samsung's Galaxy Watch 9 adopts a similar approach but goes a step further by providing a blood pressure reading; however, its accuracy relies on monthly calibrations with a traditional blood pressure monitor. In contrast, the Watch D3 does not need a month-long wait or calibration and promises a medical-grade reading immediately upon wearing it.

      The watch also features Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM), which can continuously track your blood pressure throughout the day and night. Adhering to medical guidelines, it takes readings every 15 to 30 minutes, with at least 20 during the day and seven at night. To prevent waking you, the airbag inflates automatically and more quietly while you sleep. Additionally, there is a specific mode for monitoring blood pressure before and after workouts, as levels can rise during exercise. Huawei claims that this capability has earned a CE marking under the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR), confirming the D3 as a legitimate multi-scenario blood pressure monitoring device.

      Huawei is not the first company to utilize this approach to blood pressure monitoring. Omron's HeartGuide was the pioneer in 2019, implementing a similar cuff method to become the first FDA-cleared blood pressure smartwatch. However, it is notably bulkier and does not provide continuous monitoring like the D3.

      More than just blood pressure monitoring

      In addition to medical-grade blood pressure tracking, the Watch D3 includes a Health Glance feature that compiles a report of up to 11 health indicators, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and blood oxygen levels, in approximately 60 seconds. A Health Insights feature reveals long-term trends based on your health data, helping you detect patterns over time. The Health Community feature enables you to view a family member’s Health Glance, blood pressure, heart rate, and blood oxygen data all in one place, and it can send real-time alerts if anything appears abnormal.

      Every Watch D3 comes with Huawei MultiPass, bundling a Huawei Health+ membership that provides up to 90 days of free access to fitness and wellness apps including Komoot, Headspace, Naviki, FIIT, and Kotcha.

      Design, pricing, and availability

      Despite its medical-grade hardware, the Huawei Watch D3 remains relatively lightweight on the wrist. The case measures just 11.3mm thick and weighs 40 grams. It features a 25.5mm airbag strap that Huawei claims alleviates pressure on your wrist, even during overnight use. The watch is available in three finishes: Black, White, and Mocha Gold, and resembles a standard smartwatch rather than clinical equipment.

      The Watch D3 will be available for purchase starting September 23 in the UK, with prices beginning at £399.99 (~$540). It can be found through the Huawei Store, Amazon, and select retail partners. Huawei has not yet disclosed pricing and availability for other regions. Each purchase will include a Worry-Free Care package covering the display, battery, back cover, airbag replacement, and liquid damage for two years. UK customers will also receive 10 months of Bupa Well+ health services worth £200, and those who order through the Huawei Store by November 3 will receive a complimentary Huawei Scale 3 plus reward points, while Amazon shoppers will enjoy a £30 discount coupon.