Apple Reintroduces Blood Oxygen Monitoring for U.S. Watches

2025-08-14 digitalcare

Cupertino, Thursday, 14 August 2025.
Apple is reviving blood oxygen monitoring for the Watch Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2 in the U.S. via a software update after a legal challenge. Data now syncs with paired iPhones.

Legal Background and Resolution

Apple’s decision to reintroduce blood oxygen monitoring comes on the heels of a legal dispute with Masimo, a prominent medical device company. Masimo alleged that Apple had infringed on its pulse oximetry patents, leading to an import ban imposed by the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) in December 2023 [1][2]. The feature, originally introduced in Apple’s Series 6 watches in 2020, was consequently removed from devices sold in the U.S. post-January 2024 [3][4]. Apple has since been engaged in a legal battle to navigate these restrictions, culminating in a favorable ruling from U.S. Customs that now permits the importation of watches with a redesigned blood oxygen feature [5].

Technical Redesign and Implementation

The redesigned feature, available from today to Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 users, involves a significant technical shift. Blood oxygen data will now be collected by the sensors on the Watch but processed and displayed through the iPhone’s Health app, rather than directly on the Watch itself [3][6]. This change, a strategic response to circumvent the import ban, relies on users updating their devices to iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1 [7]. While users will not see immediate feedback on their wrists, they can monitor their blood oxygen levels in the Health app under the Respiratory section [1][8].

Impact and Industry Implications

This development not only marks a victory for Apple in its legal confrontations but also highlights the increasing integration of technological advancements in healthcare [2][9]. The revised mode of operation reflects a growing trend towards leveraging sophisticated wearable technology for health monitoring purposes. As noted by industry analysts, such updates could significantly enhance user engagement and expand the utility of wearable health tech, underscoring a shift from just health tracking to more proactive and preventative healthcare management [7][9].

Future Prospects and Considerations

As Apple resumes the sale of these enhanced Watch models in the U.S., analysts are keenly observing the potential ripple effects in the tech industry and among consumers [3][6]. The introduction of this redesigned feature improves market adaptability and solidifies Apple’s foothold in the healthcare tech space, paving the way for future innovations. Furthermore, the ongoing legal disputes with Masimo remain a critical factor to watch, as their resolution could influence subsequent product releases and technology licensing agreements [10][11].

Bronnen

Apple Watch blood oxygen