Apple Reintroduces Blood Oxygen Feature Amid Legal Challenges
URGENT UPDATE: Apple has just confirmed the reintroduction of the blood oxygen detection feature on the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models in the United States. This follows a lengthy legal battle with digital health company Masimo, which led to the temporary removal of this key health functionality from US models.
Effective immediately, affected Apple Watch users can access the blood oxygen feature through a software update to watchOS 11.6.1, paired with an iPhone running iOS 18.6.1. This development is crucial as it highlights Apple’s ongoing commitment to health technology amidst increasing competition in the sector.
The legal saga began when the International Trade Commission ruled in 2023 that Apple had violated Masimo’s patent related to pulse oximeter technology. This ruling forced Apple to halt the feature’s availability during a critical sales period, including the 2021 holiday season. While Apple expressed its strong disagreement with the order, the impact was significant, particularly in its largest market, the Americas.
Blood oxygen monitoring, first introduced in 2020 during the early stages of the pandemic, allows users to track their respiratory health by measuring blood oxygen saturation levels. Although not a primary selling point for consumers, this feature enhances the Apple Watch’s appeal as a potentially life-saving device.
As competition intensifies, Apple is reportedly exploring further health innovations, including noninvasive glucose monitoring. Rivals like Samsung are also advancing their health features, making this reintroduction timely as users increasingly prioritize health tracking in their wearable technology.
The update is now available, and Apple Watch owners are encouraged to update their devices to gain access to this vital feature. With health technology at the forefront of consumer electronics, Apple aims to solidify its position against competitors like Google, who is expected to unveil a new version of the Pixel Watch next week.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation develops.
