Apple brings back blood oxygen monitoring in Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2 models for US users, with a new design to comply with import regulations.
Apple Watch blood oxygen monitoring returns in new form
Apple has officially reintroduced blood oxygen monitoring to the latest Apple Watch models, but with a twist. Owners of the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 in the United States can now access the redesigned feature after installing the latest software update. Instead of processing the readings directly on the watch, the data will now be calculated on the paired iPhone. This change allows Apple to bypass the International Trade Commission’s import restrictions while still offering users a way to monitor their respiratory health.
How the new Apple Watch blood oxygen monitoring works
With the updated system, users will no longer see live oxygen saturation results on their wrist. Instead, the Apple Watch captures the necessary sensor data, which is then processed by the iPhone. The results are available in the Health app under the Respiratory section, maintaining access to health insights without breaching regulatory rules. Apple confirmed that US customs has cleared this redesign, allowing affected models to be sold again in the United States.
Which Apple Watch models are affected
This change applies only to Apple Watches sold after January 17, 2024, when the ITC import ban came into effect. Watches sold before that date or outside the US will retain the original blood oxygen monitoring feature. Users can check if their watch is affected by looking for a serial number ending in LW/A. To activate the redesigned system, users must update to watchOS 11.6.1 and iOS 18.6.1 on their devices.
Apple’s ongoing legal battle over blood oxygen technology
The update stems from a legal dispute between Apple and medical device company Masimo, which accused Apple of patent infringement and stealing trade secrets related to pulse oximeter technology. The ITC sided with Masimo in 2023, leading to the import ban. While Apple has filed a lengthy appeal, this redesigned blood oxygen monitoring system ensures compliance while keeping a valuable health feature available to users. The dispute remains unresolved, with Masimo’s patents set to expire in 2028.
Comment