How to use the Vitals app on an Apple Watch

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 3 October 2026

The Vitals app collects the measurements the watch takes while you sleep and shows whether each one is inside your usual range. Its value is in the comparison with your own normal: one value out of range means little, while several together can be an early sign that something is off.

These steps are for recent versions of watchOS. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the watch screen, not screenshots.

Step by step

1. Wear the watch at night

   The values are measured while you sleep, so sleep tracking must be set up: how to track your sleep with an Apple Watch. The band should sit snugly, with the back of the watch on your skin. The app needs several nights before it can show your typical range.

   Done

2. Open the Vitals app

   Press the Digital Crown and tap Vitals. The first screen shows at a glance whether last night was typical.

   Done

3. Look at the details

   Tap Overnight Vitals and turn the Digital Crown to go through heart rate, respiratory rate, wrist temperature, blood oxygen and sleep duration. Tap one of them to read what can influence it.

   Done

4. See the last seven days

   Tap the calendar button at the top left. Tap the summary button to go back to the overview.

   Done

5. Turn on notifications

   Open the Settings app on the watch, tap Vitals and switch on Notifications. The watch then tells you when at least two of the overnight values are outside your typical range.

   Done

6. Read a notification calmly

   The notification names possible reasons, such as medication, a change in altitude, or an illness on the way. Alcohol and a late, heavy meal have a similar effect. Look at how you feel, and see whether the values return to normal over the next nights.

   Done

Good to know

The newest models also show heart rate variability, and daytime values next to the overnight ones.

Blood oxygen is not available on every model and in every country.

The app is not a medical device and does not diagnose anything. If values stay out of range and you feel unwell, speak to a doctor.

Related: how to check your heart rate on an Apple Watch and how to turn on sleep apnea notifications on an Apple Watch.

In short: Sleep tracking on, wear the watch at night, open Vitals, Overnight Vitals, Digital Crown through the values, calendar for seven days. Notifications under Settings, Vitals.