Which Apple Watch models are affected by this update?
Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models in the U.S. that currently do not have the Blood Oxygen feature enabled.
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Tech / Wearables
Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Feature Returns to Select Models After Legal Dispute
Apple is re-enabling the Blood Oxygen feature on some Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models in the United States. This follows a legal dispute with medical technology company Masimo over intellectual property relat...
Key Insights
- The redesigned Blood Oxygen feature will be available via a software update (iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1) for users in the U.S. who do not currently have the feature.
- Sensor data from the Blood Oxygen app will be measured and calculated on the paired iPhone, with results viewable in the Health app.
- This update is made possible by a recent U.S. Customs ruling.
- Apple had previously paused sales of some watches and sold modified versions without the Blood Oxygen feature due to the dispute.
- Existing Apple Watch units with the original Blood Oxygen feature and units purchased outside the U.S. are not affected.
In-Depth Analysis
In 2023, the International Trade Commission (ITC) determined that Apple's blood oxygen sensors infringed on Masimo's intellectual property. This led to Apple temporarily pausing sales of certain Apple Watch models and introducing modified versions without the Blood Oxygen functionality. The recent U.S. Customs ruling has paved the way for Apple to reintroduce the feature through a software update that shifts the data processing to the paired iPhone.
Apple's continued focus on health features is evident in its recent releases, including sleep apnea detection and hearing health features. The Blood Oxygen feature joins a suite of health and wellness tools available on the Apple Watch, such as irregular rhythm notifications, ECG app, Fall Detection, and more.
This matters because it highlights the complexities of intellectual property disputes in the technology sector and the lengths to which companies will go to protect their innovations. It also demonstrates Apple's commitment to providing health-related features to its users, even amidst legal challenges.
FAQ
What do I need to do to get the redesigned Blood Oxygen feature?
Update your paired iPhone to iOS 18.6.1 and your Apple Watch to watchOS 11.6.1.
Will this affect my existing Apple Watch with the Blood Oxygen feature?
No, Apple Watch units previously purchased with the original Blood Oxygen feature are not affected.
What if I purchased my Apple Watch outside of the U.S.?
This update only affects Apple Watch units sold in the U.S.
Takeaways
- If you own an Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, or Ultra 2 in the U.S. without the Blood Oxygen feature, update your devices to access the redesigned functionality.
- The Blood Oxygen feature will now process data on your paired iPhone.
- This update underscores Apple's dedication to health and wellness features on its devices.
Discussion
Do you think this resolution between Apple and Masimo will set a precedent for future tech disputes? Let us know!
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Sources
Disclaimer
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