Huawei’s First Non‑Invasive Diabetes‑Risk Feature: What It Means for Wearables
At the World Health Expo 2026 in Dubai, Huawei unveiled a ground‑breaking health function for its flagship Watch GT 6 Pro. The latest feature evaluates a wearer’s risk of developing diabetes without any needle‑based blood test.
How the technology works
Huawei relies on an optical photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor—the same sensor that measures heart rate and blood‑oxygen saturation (SpO₂). Tiny LEDs shine light onto the skin, and the reflected signal is analysed to infer metabolic trends. The algorithm needs 3 to 14 days of continuous wear to collect enough data before it can assign a risk level: low, medium, or high.
Not a glucose meter – a preventive tool
The watch does not deliver real‑time glucose readings. Instead, it provides a risk assessment that can motivate users with a high score to consult a medical professional. Because it stops short of delivering a diagnostic measurement, the feature avoids the stringent regulatory approvals required for true glucose monitors.
Where Huawei stands among its rivals
Apple’s long‑rumored glucose sensor remains unconfirmed, while Samsung has repeatedly announced function on an optical, non‑invasive glucose solution. Huawei’s announcement makes it the first major smartwatch brand to launch a diabetes‑risk function, even though experts note that the technology is still “a long way from replacing a glucose monitor” (MSN).
Future roll‑outs and industry impact
The Huawei Health app will soon receive a beta update for the GT 6 Pro, with the feature expected to roll out to other Huawei models via OTA updates in the coming months. Samsung is expected to showcase its own diabetes‑prevention solution with the upcoming Galaxy Watch 9 (summer 2026).
Market context: the smartwatch landscape in 2026
Huawei’s GT 6 Pro is priced between €279 and €380 (observe price listings on Les Numériques) and has been praised for its long battery life and premium design, positioning it as a strong Apple Watch alternative. In broader reviews, the best smartwatches of 2026 list Apple Watch Ultra 3 as the top pick, with Android contenders such as the Google Pixel Watch 4 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 also receiving high marks.
Emerging trends in health wearables
- From activity tracking to risk assessment: Devices are moving beyond steps and calories to provide early warnings for chronic conditions.
- Optical sensors as a common platform: PPG technology is expanding to new health metrics, including temperature and ECG, already present on the GT 6 Pro.
- Data privacy considerations: As health data becomes more sensitive, manufacturers must balance innovation with robust security (see Forbes analysis of health data privacy).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Huawei Watch GT 6 Pro replace my glucose monitor?
No. It only provides a risk level based on optical data; it does not measure blood glucose directly.
How long does it take to receive a risk assessment?
The algorithm needs between three and fourteen days of continuous wear to generate a reliable risk estimate.
Will other smartwatch brands offer similar features?
Samsung is developing its own optical solution for the upcoming Galaxy Watch 9, and Apple’s plans remain unconfirmed.
Is the risk assessment medically certified?
Because the feature does not provide a diagnostic measurement, it does not require the strict medical approvals that a glucose meter would.
How can I get the feature on my Huawei watch?
Watch for the next beta update of the Huawei Health app; the feature will roll out OTA to supported models in the coming months.
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