Project Mulberry Signals a New Direction for Apple Health

Apple is said to be close to launching a redesigned Health app, internally referred to as Project Mulberry. The revamp is expected to add a dedicated Siri button, allowing users to interact with the app via voice. This integration is part of a broader effort to embed artificial‑intelligence capabilities throughout the health experience, turning the wealth of biometric data collected by the Apple Watch into practical recommendations.

AI Partnerships and Technology Choices

According to reports, Apple may be negotiating a billion‑dollar agreement with Google to use a custom version of Google’s Gemini AI model. The partnership would help power Siri’s new functions and the AI health coach features within the Health app. Apple’s move reflects a strategic decision to collaborate rather than build a comparable model entirely in‑house, especially after losing several AI engineers to competitors.

Health Coaching and Competitive Landscape

The upcoming Health app could include a service dubbed “Health Plus,” which would rely heavily on AI to deliver personalized coaching. Competitors such as Fitbit, Oura and Garmin already offer AI‑driven coaching tools that translate device data into training plans, diet advice and sleep guidance. Apple’s entry into this space aims to match or exceed the functionality of these rivals while maintaining the brand’s hallmark focus on privacy and on‑device processing.

Existing AI Features on Apple Watch

Apple’s current WatchOS already uses AI for several health alerts, including irregular heart‑rate detection, sleep‑apnea monitoring, hypertension warnings and fall detection. These features operate largely in the background, surfacing only when an issue is detected. The new AI coach would shift from passive monitoring to an interactive experience, allowing users to ask questions and receive real‑time feedback during workouts via a feature known as the “Workout Buddy.”

Privacy Concerns and User Trust

Integrating a large language model with sensitive health data raises privacy considerations. Apple has historically emphasized on‑device processing to protect user information, a stance that differentiates it from competitors that may rely more on cloud‑based analysis. The company will need to assure users that their health records remain secure and are not used to train external AI models.

Potential Impact and Market Position

If successful, the AI‑enhanced Health app could reinforce Apple’s position in the wearable health market and provide a one‑stop‑shop experience for users seeking actionable health insights. However, the timing and execution are critical; launching too late could cede ground to rivals, while moving too quickly could result in a product that confuses users or compromises privacy.

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