HomeApple Reintroduces Blood Oxygen Tracking in Newest Watch Models
The blood oxygen monitoring feature is making a comeback to select Apple Watch models — albeit in a modified form. Starting today, Apple is releasing a software update that reactivates this capability for Series 9, Ultra 2, and the recently launched Series 10 models through a redesigned system that complies with the International Trade Commission's import restrictions.
Here's how the workaround functions: Instead of processing data directly on the wrist, compatible Apple Watches will now transmit blood oxygen measurements to paired iPhones for analysis. While the readings won't display on the watch face, users can access them through the Respiratory section in the iPhone Health app. Apple confirms that U.S. Customs has approved importing watches equipped with this revised functionality.
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This updated functionality applies exclusively to Apple Watches manufactured after January 17, 2024—the date when the ITC ban became fully enforceable. Pre-existing models and units sold internationally retain their original blood oxygen capabilities. Consumers can identify affected models by checking for serial numbers ending in LW/A. To activate the revised feature, Series 9, Ultra 2, and Series 10 owners must upgrade to watchOS 11.6.1 and pair it with iOS 18.6.1.
The change stems from Apple's ongoing legal battle with Masimo, a leading manufacturer of medical pulse oximeters. The conflict began when Masimo filed a 2020 lawsuit alleging patent infringement and trade secret theft, followed by a 2021 ITC complaint that resulted in last December's import ban. Apple countersued Masimo over its smartwatch designs and submitted an extensive 916-page appeal against the ITC ruling. With Masimo's patents valid through 2028, this complex legal dispute shows no signs of immediate resolution.
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The blood oxygen monitoring feature is making a comeback to select Apple Watch models — albeit in a modified form. Starting today, Apple is releasing a software update that reactivates this capability for Series 9, Ultra 2, and the recently launched Series 10 models through a redesigned system that complies with the International Trade Commission's import restrictions.
Here's how the workaround functions: Instead of processing data directly on the wrist, compatible Apple Watches will now transmit blood oxygen measurements to paired iPhones for analysis. While the readings won't display on the watch face, users can access them through the Respiratory section in the iPhone Health app. Apple confirms that U.S. Customs has approved importing watches equipped with this revised functionality.
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- Complete guide to the Apple Watch ban
- Inside Apple's 916-page legal appeal against the watch ban
- The truth behind the Apple Watch prohibition and potential solutions
This updated functionality applies exclusively to Apple Watches manufactured after January 17, 2024—the date when the ITC ban became fully enforceable. Pre-existing models and units sold internationally retain their original blood oxygen capabilities. Consumers can identify affected models by checking for serial numbers ending in LW/A. To activate the revised feature, Series 9, Ultra 2, and Series 10 owners must upgrade to watchOS 11.6.1 and pair it with iOS 18.6.1.
The change stems from Apple's ongoing legal battle with Masimo, a leading manufacturer of medical pulse oximeters. The conflict began when Masimo filed a 2020 lawsuit alleging patent infringement and trade secret theft, followed by a 2021 ITC complaint that resulted in last December's import ban. Apple countersued Masimo over its smartwatch designs and submitted an extensive 916-page appeal against the ITC ruling. With Masimo's patents valid through 2028, this complex legal dispute shows no signs of immediate resolution.
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