With no fanfare whatsoever, Garmin has released a smart blood pressure cuff that syncs automatically with the Garmin Connect mobile app, collating all your health data in one convenient place. The app can also send notifications to your smartphone and Garmin watch, reminding you to check your blood pressure regularly.
The Garmin Index BPM is was spotted on Garmin's website by Reddit user moosetender, who shared the news on r/Garmin.
We've been expecting this for a few months now, though it's a surprise that Garmin has released it so quietly. Back in July, the company released an update for its mobile app that included references to the Garmin Index BPM. The newly added documentation stated that stats and advice from the device are based on advice from the American Heart Association, and aren't intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease or condition.
Garmin Index BPM
Most home blood pressure monitors have two components: an inflatable cuff, which tightens around your arm, and a control unit that contains the battery, motor, and processor. The Index BPM combines these into one, with all the hardware mounted on the cuff.
This design isn't unique to Garmin (health tech company Omron offers similar devices, for example). The main differentiator here seems to be the ability to manage all your health stats natively in one app via either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, though you can also use it as a standalone device without an app if you prefer.
The app allows you to see trends over seven days, four weeks, or one year, and generate PDF reports that you can share with your doctor. Up to 16 people can create their own profiles and use the same device to track their individual readings.
The Garmin Index BPM is available to buy now for $149.99 in the US, which is relatively expensive for a home blood pressure monitor, but can be explained by the addition of Wi-Fi connectivity. The device doesn't seem to be available in the UK at the time of writing. This may mean it's awaiting accreditation from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.
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