Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Sensor comes back in the U.S after fighting the legal ban. Apple removed the feature earlier due to a legal ban.
This time, Apple has found a workaround to support software updates. Users of new Apple Watch models can again track oxygen levels. However, results will now appear only on their iPhone devices.
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Key Takeaways:
- Blood Oxygen Sensor returns with a new software update.
- Data now shows in the iPhone Health app.
- Available for Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2.
Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Sensor Returns in the U.S with Redesign
Apple has reintroduced blood oxygen monitoring for Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models. The update requires iOS 18.6.1 on iPhone and watchOS 11.6.1 on Apple Watch.
This redesigned system was approved by U.S. Customs, allowing Apple to import watches again. Users in the U.S. can finally regain this important health tracking function.
The redesigned system works in a new way. Blood oxygen data is no longer processed directly on the watch. Instead, it transfers automatically to the paired iPhone.
Users will then find the results in the Health app under the Respiratory section. Although readings are not visible on the wrist, the feature still provides helpful respiratory insights through the iPhone application.
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Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Sensor Returns in the U.S After Legal Ban
The ban followed a long legal dispute with Masimo. Masimo, a medical technology company, accused Apple of patent violations. The International Trade Commission ruled in Masimo’s favor during 2023.
That decision stopped Apple from importing certain Apple Watch models into the United States. Apple strongly disagreed but was forced to remove the feature.
The restriction applied only to Apple Watches sold after January 17, 2024. Devices purchased before that date were not affected. Watches bought outside the United States also continued with the original sensor.
Apple filed a large appeal against the ruling, which remains unresolved. Until a final decision arrives, Apple has introduced this redesigned approach as a solution.
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Update Guide
To activate the redesigned feature, users must update their devices. On iPhone, open Settings, select General, then Software Update. Download iOS 18.6.1 to enable the function.
For Apple Watch, open the Watch app on iPhone and install watchOS 11.6.1. Once both updates are installed, the sensor automatically becomes active again.
This redesigned version only applies to certain newer models. Eligible devices include Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models sold after January 17, 2024.
These units can be identified by a serial number ending with LW/A. Older watches or international purchases remain unchanged. They continue offering the original blood oxygen monitoring system without modifications.
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The End Note
Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Sensor will support Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models regain the feature.
Users now receive oxygen data on their iPhone Health app. Although results are not shown directly on the watch, the feature remains available. Apple’s decision ensures continued access to health tracking technology.
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