BYD has filed patents and quietly advanced a new trajectory for wearable tech with a smart watch that houses a built-in breathalyzer. This update comes through CarNews China, which tracks the latest moves from the electric vehicle giant.
The BYD smartwatch app recently cleared approval from the Chinese state intellectual property office, signaling a substantial step in turning a wearable into a focused vehicle-adjacent tool. Developed by a major EV producer, the watch is described as capable of monitoring vital signs such as heart rate, body temperature, and blood oxygen levels, while also providing a method to gauge alcohol levels in a person. This dual role as a health monitor and a potential safety check raises questions about how such devices might integrate with daily life and mobility services in the near future. Attribution CarNews China
Beyond health sensing, the device is reported to include a blood pressure measurement feature, expanding its capabilities beyond simple activity tracking. A decade ago, BYD explored a bold concept to use a smartwatch as a car key, envisioning seamless access and personalization. That specific idea did not move into mass production, but it laid groundwork for a broader strategy to fuse wearable tech with automotive ecosystems. Attribution CarNews China
Industry observers note that the statements around BYDs smart watch come at a moment of growing anticipation about Chinese electric vehicle makers expanding their influence in international markets. Former chairman of Stellantis Carlos Tavares recently cautioned about intense competition on the horizon as European buyers increasingly encounter Chinese EV manufacturers. The message is not just about hardware. It underscores a shift toward integrated mobility experiences where wearables, app ecosystems, and car interfaces converge to shape consumer choices. Attribution CarNews China