Powerbeats Pro 2 to Add Heart Rate Monitoring via iOS 26

▼ Summary
– The author is a senior reporter with extensive experience covering gadgets and tech since 2006.
– The Powerbeats Pro 2 now supports real-time heart rate monitoring in the Apple Fitness app during 50 workout types.
– These earbuds are compatible with Apple Fitness Plus, displaying metrics such as heart rate and calories burned on screen.
– New features with iOS 26 include a faster reading algorithm, step counting, and fit improvement notifications for better accuracy.
– The update also enables heart rate monitoring while wearing only a single earbud.
Fitness enthusiasts and Apple loyalists have a compelling reason to get excited about the upcoming Powerbeats Pro 2. The next generation of these popular wireless earbuds is set to integrate real-time heart rate monitoring directly through the Apple Fitness app, a significant upgrade from the initial reliance on third-party applications. This enhancement means users can now track their pulse across 50 different workout types without needing to switch between platforms, offering a more streamlined and cohesive fitness tracking experience.
Beyond the core heart rate functionality, the Powerbeats Pro 2 will also sync seamlessly with Apple Fitness Plus, displaying key metrics such as heart rate and calories burned directly on the user’s screen during workouts. This integration provides a more immersive and data-rich exercise session, allowing wearers to stay informed and motivated without interrupting their flow.
Additional improvements are on the way courtesy of the iOS 26 update. A new algorithm promises faster and more accurate readings, reducing lag and improving the reliability of health data. The update also introduces step counting capabilities, broadening the earbuds’ utility beyond pure audio and heart rate functions. Users will even receive notifications with suggestions on how to improve the earbuds’ fit, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy during intense activity.
Perhaps one of the most user-friendly upgrades is the ability to monitor heart rate using just a single earbud. This flexibility is especially useful for those who prefer to wear one earbud during workouts or throughout the day, making continuous health tracking more convenient than ever.
(Source: The Verge)