Which Apple Watch models are affected by this update?
Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models sold in the U.S. that previously had the Blood Oxygen feature disabled.
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Technology / Mobile
Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Feature Returns with iOS 18.6.1 Update
Apple has released iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1 updates to restore the Blood Oxygen feature on Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models sold in the U.S. This update comes after a patent dispute with Masimo, a medical...
Key Insights
- The Blood Oxygen feature is reintroduced for specific Apple Watch models (Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2) in the U.S.
- Users need to update their iPhones to iOS 18.6.1 and Apple Watches to watchOS 11.6.1 to access the feature.
- The Blood Oxygen app on Apple Watch now transmits data to the paired iPhone for calculation and analysis, with results visible in the Health app.
- This update is a workaround resulting from a patent dispute with Masimo.
- Older Apple Watch models with the original Blood Oxygen feature and Apple Watch units sold outside the U.S. are not affected.
In-Depth Analysis
The reintroduction of the Blood Oxygen feature is a significant development for Apple Watch users in the U.S. The patent dispute with Masimo led to the deactivation of this feature, impacting the health monitoring capabilities of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. The iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1 updates provide a workaround by shifting the data processing from the watch to the paired iPhone.
This solution allows users to measure their blood oxygen levels using the Apple Watch, with the data being processed on the iPhone and displayed in the Health app. This ensures that users can continue to monitor their respiratory health and detect potential issues.
While there are no explicit security updates included in iOS 18.6.1, the primary focus is on restoring functionality. Users have reported improved performance after installing the update, suggesting potential optimizations. To get the update, go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone.
FAQ
Do I need to update both my iPhone and Apple Watch?
Yes, both devices need to be updated to iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1, respectively.
Where can I find the Blood Oxygen data after the update?
The data will be available in the Respiratory section of the Health app on your paired iPhone.
Takeaways
- If you have an Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, or Ultra 2 in the U.S., update your iPhone and Apple Watch to regain the Blood Oxygen feature.
- The Blood Oxygen data will now be processed on your iPhone instead of the watch.
- This update addresses a patent dispute and ensures continued access to health monitoring features.
Discussion
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