The new iPhone 5S features a new M7 coprocessor which could encourage developers of health devices and apps to work more closely with the device.

The M7 coprocessor is designed to measure motion data from the handset’s accelerometer, gyroscope and compass.

Normally that role would be filled by the iPhone’s A7 chip but the M7 is more efficient at it, says Apple. Health and fitness apps can access data from the new coprocessor without going to the A7 chip, which means they will use less battery power.

Apple’s marketing chief Phil Schiller last week talked up how the M7 will know whether a user is stationary, walking or running through a new software interface called Core Motion. He gave an example of how a new Nike + Move app will track a user’s activities.

There have been several recent reports saying Apple is stepping up work on wearable technology, including its rumoured iWatch. The new coprocessor would enable the new iPhone to work more effectively with such accessories.