Huawei debuts new HarmonyOS app that aims to detect respiratory issues

Huawei has begun the rollout of HarmonyOS 3 to the Watch GT Runner - an update that brings with it a new app that aims to detect respiratory health issues. 

Initially due to roll out to smartwatches last year, the latest software is now appearing on GT Runner devices globally.

With it, users can expect upgrades to menus, new watch faces and quirky features like a flashlight, though it appears the respiratory health app appears to be exclusive to China for now. 

The details are pretty sketchy from what we can make out from Huawei's official update log, and there's also no indication of whether it will come to other regions - or, indeed, need any kind of approval to do so. 

According to the folks over at GizmoChina, at least, the app's primary function will be to check for lung infections by analyzing the likes of body temperature history, respiratory rate and cough sounds.  

If so, it would mark the first time we've seen a major smartwatch attempt to screen for such issues.

And even if this health feature doesn't make it outside of China, the update will be welcome news to Watch GT Runner owners.

It means the device joins others in the Huawei lineup - such as the Huawei Watch Buds and Huawei Watch GT 3 Pro - in offering the latest version of the platform. 

Given that we're also expecting a Huawei Watch 4 to land over the coming months, it also makes sense that the company is aligning its set of watches. 

Only time will tell if the respiratory health app makes it onto other third-gen devices and the upcoming model, though.