Hilo Core Named Among TIME's Best Inventions of 2026
On October 15, 2026, TIME Magazine unveiled its annual list of the Best Inventions, highlighting 300 groundbreaking innovations that are set to change the way we live. Among these remarkable entries is the
Hilo Core, recognized as the world's first blood pressure health system. This innovative technology, launched in the U.S. in July 2026, marks a significant leap forward in how individuals can monitor and manage their blood pressure, driving awareness and proactive health measures.
Understanding Hilo Core
Hilo Core isn't just a traditional blood pressure monitor. Instead of offering isolated readings, it provides a comprehensive long-term view of blood pressure patterns. Nearly half of adults in the United States struggle with high blood pressure, a critical risk factor for heart disease and stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Conventional methods often rely on sporadic cuff-based readings, which present a limited perspective on one's health. In contrast, Hilo’s groundbreaking approach shifts blood pressure monitoring into a continuous, data-driven experience, bridging the gap between standard devices and consumer wearables.
Stefan Petzinger, CEO of Hilo by Aktiia, expressed his excitement at the recognition, stating, "Being acknowledged as one of TIME's Best Inventions is an incredible honor and a powerful affirmation of our mission." This sentiment reflects Hilo's commitment to empower users through insights that reveal how their daily decisions influence blood pressure levels. By fostering this understanding, Hilo aims to encourage individuals to become more active in managing their health.
The Components of the Hilo Core System
The Hilo Core functionality is derived from a trifecta of innovative components: a lightweight wearable band, a mobile application, and an FDA-cleared upper-arm cuff. After an initial calibration process, the wearable band can record up to 35 blood pressure measurements per day, including during sleep, allowing for a rich dataset that reveals long-term trends.
The accompanying app consolidates blood pressure data with additional health metrics such as sleep quality, daily steps, and heart rate. This integration provides a holistic view of a user's health, enabling a deeper understanding of how various lifestyle factors may impact their blood pressure. The cuff serves as a reference point, allowing results to be saved and shared with healthcare providers for more fruitful consultations.
Accessible Health Monitoring
For those interested in purchasing, the Hilo Core can be bought directly from
Hilo.com or Amazon, with a price of
$89.99 for the hardware and an annual subscription fee of
$149.99, totaling
$239.98 for the first year, excluding tax. The system is also compatible with Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), further advocating for accessible healthcare solutions.
According to TIME, the selection for this year's Best Inventions involved nominations from editors and correspondents, alongside an online application process. Each innovation was rigorously evaluated based on originality, effectiveness, ambition, and impact, emphasizing the growing sectors of health care and technology, specifically artificial intelligence.
The Vision of Hilo
Founded in Switzerland, Hilo by Aktiia seeks to redefine how individuals engage with their cardiovascular health. With over 20 years of research backing its development, Hilo provides users with tools to gain deeper insights into their health and understand hypertension, commonly referred to as the “silent killer.” Hilo Core is a game-changer in a market often dominated by static devices, paving the way for a new category that merges effortless technology with health-conscious living.
More about Hilo and its products can be found at
Hilo's official website. While it is important to note that Hilo Core is not classified as a medical device and hasn't been cleared by the FDA, it significantly aids in the monitoring aspect of health management.
Conclusion
The recognition of Hilo Core among TIME's Best Inventions serves as a landmark achievement for health technology, highlighting the importance of blood pressure awareness and proactive management. As we take strides into the future of healthcare, innovations like Hilo Core will lead the charge in transforming patient care and enhancing individual wellness.