New Meta-Analysis Challenges Apple Watch’s Calorie Tracking Precision
For dedicated Apple Watch users, fitness tracking accuracy remains a critical topic—especially as Apple continues to position its wearable as both a health companion and motivational tool. This week, a peer-reviewed meta-analysis from the University of Mississippi—cited by CNET and MacRumors—delivered one of the most comprehensive reviews to date, highlighting a significant limitation: substantial inaccuracy in the Watch’s calorie burn estimates.
Study Scope and Key Findings
Researchers examined data from 56 previously published studies evaluating the Apple Watch’s performance on heart rate, step count, and energy expenditure. The Watch performed admirably on heart rate (4.43% mean absolute percentage error) and step count (8.17%), with both metrics within widely recognized accuracy thresholds for consumer fitness devices. However, calorie estimation—often referred to as energy expenditure—had a mean absolute percentage error of 27.96%, more
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