Apple Watch blood oxygen feature is making a comeback, know how to access the feature
The blood oxygen feature will be back on the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10 and Ultra 2 models in the United States.
Apple had to drop the blood oxygen detection feature from its smartwatches after it faced a patent dispute in the US. However, the blood oxygen feature will be back on the Watch Series 9, Series 10 and Ultra 2 models. This feature will be added through iPhone and software of Apple Watch, mentioned a report by Reuters.
The addition of the blood oxygen technology in smartwatches comes after a fresh ruling by US Customs. It allows Apple to import smartwatches with a redesigned version of the tech. Apple will restore the feature through the new iOS 18.6.1 (on iPhone) and watchOS 11.6.1 (for smartwatch) updates.
How does the feature work?
The Blood Oxygen app on Apple Watch will send data to an iPhone that is paired. The results will be shown in the Respiratory Section of the Health app on the iPhone. However, the Apple Watches that are sold with original feature or purchased outside US will not be affected.
Users who have an eligible iPhone can download the iOS 18.6.1 by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Similarly, the watchOS 11.6.1 can be downloaded through Apple Watch app on the iPhone.
Ban on Apple Watch Blood oxygen feature
After a patent dispute between Apple and Masimo Corp. the blood oxygen feature from apple watches was removed in late 2023. A fresh US Customs ruling allows Apple to import watches with a redesigned version of the tech.
