Apple's HealthKit Promises to Redefine Health Care
Apple has long been expected to launch a dedicated health app, and the company made it official today (June 2) at WWDC 2014. Apple's iOS 8 will launch later this year with HealthKit, a service that monitors your vitals for both first- and third-party fitness apps. The impact could be substantial on the health care industry, as doctors could get instant access to important patient data and then reach out to the person directly.
As outlined by Apple Senior VP Craig Federighi at WWDC 2014, HealthKit measures statistics like calories burned, movement and sleep. You can use the service to get a quick glance of your vitals, as well as track your fitness over a specific period of time.
MORE: Best Fitness Trackers 2014
Apple will be launching its own fitness app for use with HealthKit, simply titled "Health." HealthKit's functionality extends from there, as the stat-tracking service will be compatible with third-party apps, including Nike fitness software and the Mayo Clinic app. HealthKit pulls in info from all of these supported apps, allowing you to view a wide range of statistics in one central location.
According to Apple, HealthKit will provide hospitals and doctors with an easy means of pulling up crucial patient info.
By launching HealthKit, Apple is creating a convenient info hub for those who use fitness bands from the likes of Nike, Fitbit and Jawbone as well as their respective apps. Apple has yet to announce its long-rumored iWatch, but HealthKit will almost certainly be a big part of the iPhone maker's first wearable strategy.
Follow Mike Andronico @MikeAndronico and on Google+. Follow us @TomsGuide, on Facebookand on Google+.
Copyright 2014 Toms Guides , a TechMediaNetwork company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
