With a recent software update, Amazfit has expanded the functions of its Amazfit Balance 2 (€ 299.99 *). The device can now also measure blood pressure – at least under certain conditions. However, the measurement function does not come without restrictions and requires both technical understanding and a little patience when setting it up.
The most important facts in brief
- The update to firmware version 3.16.0.3 activates blood pressure measurement via optical sensor
- Function is officially only available in selected countries such as Singapore, Brazil and India
- Manual calibration with a classic blood pressure monitor is mandatory
- The function is for guidance only and does not replace a medical measurement
Blood pressure measurement now via PPG sensor
With the update to version 3.16.0.3, the Amazfit Balance 2 has a new app for measuring blood pressure. This uses the already integrated PPG sensors on the wrist to estimate systolic and diastolic values. The method is similar to the technology used in the Samsung Galaxy Watch: the blood flow is analyzed using optical sensors and a blood pressure value is calculated from this.
However, the measurement requires calibration – using a classic blood pressure monitor with a cuff. Three comparative measurements must be carried out in parallel with the smartwatch and the reference device. Only then can the watch determine the blood pressure independently. Calibration loses accuracy over time and should therefore be repeated about once a month. The measurement itself takes around 30 seconds and must be started manually – continuous monitoring is not provided.
Regional restrictions and possible workarounds
A major obstacle for many interested users is the limited availability of the function. Amazfit currently only offers blood pressure measurement in certain countries, including Singapore, Brazil and India. In Europe – including Germany, Austria and Switzerland – the feature has not been officially released. If you still want to use the function, you have to resort to a workaround: With a new Zepp account registered to a supported country, the smartwatch can be set up again. This involves deleting all data and resetting the device.
This detour works in practice, but is not officially intended by Amazfit and can lead to problems with future updates. It also remains unclear whether the manufacturer will seek regulatory approvals for the European market in the future. There is currently no corresponding approval as a medical device, which is why the function should not be understood as a medical measurement – Amazfit explicitly points out that the values determined are only intended as a guide.
Further improvements included in the update
In addition to the blood pressure function, the update to version 3.16.0.3 also includes other new features. For example, a special ultramarathon mode has been added, which is optimized for particularly long running times. Amazfit has also revised the Control Center and improved the operation of the digital crown. These small but useful changes make the smartwatch even more user-friendly and versatile in everyday use.
The update is installed via the Zepp app and takes around 12 MB. After a successful update, blood pressure measurement is available as a new app – provided the account location supports the feature. Users should also ensure that the wristband fits snugly when measuring and that the hand lies still on the table during the measurement in order to obtain the most reliable values possible.
Conclusion: Exciting feature with limitations
The ability to measure blood pressure directly on the wrist is undoubtedly an interesting and useful upgrade for the Amazfit Balance 2. The Amazfit Balance 2 is still available at a price of € 299.99 *. The software update is available free of charge via the Zepp app. As an alternative, we can recommend the Huawei Watch D2 (€ 365.90 *).
