Apple was long regarded as a pioneer for innovative wearables, health features, and seamless integration. But recently, more voices have criticized Apple for falling behind—the big innovations are missing, and the promises don't materialize. Here's a clear look at the criticisms, based on current reports, studies, and technical limitations.
1. Google detects cardiac arrest – Apple remains silent
A powerful example: Google introduced "Loss of Pulse Detection" for its Pixel smartwatches, which detects cardiac arrest and has even been approved by the US FDA. The technology uses optical sensors (photoplethysmography, PPG) and algorithms to detect a missing pulse. If the user doesn't respond, the watch can automatically call emergency services. Studies show a sensitivity of about 67% and a low false alarm rate (approximately one false emergency call per 21.67 user years). Google is boldly stepping into life-saving features and bringing them to market.
Apple? Remains silent. There are no indications that a comparable feature is in development. Of course, the technical, regulatory, and ethical hurdles are high—false alarms can be dangerous. Yet for many users, it seems Google is setting the direction while Apple remains stuck in old patterns.
2. Heart rate measurement: Good, but not top tier
Many Apple Watch users are frustrated that the heart rate measurement is not truly continuous. The Apple Watch uses optical sensors (green and infrared LEDs with photodiodes) to measure blood flow. This works well in everyday situations, but the method is not a medical gold standard. Particularly during movement, poor watch fit, or weak signals, inaccuracies occur.
Outside workouts, the Apple Watch often measures heart rate only every 10 minutes, not continuously. During training, measurements occur more frequently, but users report jumps or dropouts, especially during intense activities. Studies confirm: accuracy declines under high load or irregular movement. Heart rate variability (HRV), which is important for deeper health analysis, is often underestimated—on average by 8.31 ms compared to a chest strap.
Conclusion: For everyday use, the Apple Watch is solid, but those wanting precise, continuous measurements will be disappointed.
3. Sleep tracking: Okay, but unimpressive
Apple Watch's sleep analysis is another point of criticism. It measures sleep duration, deep and light sleep, respiratory rate, and wake phases—which sounds good but remains superficial. Detailed insights, such as sleep phase transitions, REM deviations, or precise sleep quality, are missing. Users of devices like Oura, Garmin, or Withings report much deeper analysis and more accurate tracking.
Measurement is based on PPG and motion, without EEG or other precise methods. This results in approximate values rather than reliable diagnostics. In short: Apple's sleep tracking is usable but not top-notch.
4. Apple trails behind: AI, satellites, competition
The Apple Watch’s weaknesses reflect a larger problem: Apple seems less innovative than before.
a) No strong AI: “Apple Intelligence” and the improved, context-aware Siri were announced with much fanfare but repeatedly delayed. Apple admits the first version was not stable enough. In Europe, features are additionally delayed by regulations like the Digital Markets Act. While Google (with Gemini or Bard) and Microsoft (via OpenAI) push ahead in AI, Apple seems left behind.
b) Satellite communication with caveats: Features like satellite emergency calls or satellite messaging are selling points for iPhones and Apple Watches. Yet in many parts of Europe, they either don't function or only partially—due to technical, regulatory, or licensing reasons. Users often feel misled.
c) Competition overtaking: Google is bringing health features like cardiac arrest detection faster to market. Manufacturers like Garmin, Samsung, Huawei, or Fitbit aggressively focus on sensors, AI, and health data—often with more open systems or closer collaboration with research institutions. Apple’s closed ecosystem feels increasingly limiting.
Conclusion: Apple needs to stretch
Apple still delivers strong products, and the ecosystem remains a stronghold. But the innovation pressure seems to be waning. The competition shows what is possible—be it life-saving features or more precise health data. For Apple, it's not just about technology but strategy: more courage for radical innovations, more openness, and fewer small steps could bring back former brilliance. Otherwise, Apple risks falling into the second tier.