Monitor your oxygen levels easily with the Apple Watch once more
The Apple Watch's blood oxygen measurement feature, which was removed in January 2024 due to patent violations, is making a comeback. With the release of iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1, the feature will be available on recent Apple Watch models (Series 9, Series 10, Ultra 2) purchased in the U.S. since January 18, 2024, with part numbers ending in LW/A.
The return of the feature, however, comes with a design change. Unlike before, the blood oxygen data analysis will now occur on the paired iPhone's Health app, while the watch collects sensor data. This change aims to address the patent dispute with medical technology company Masimo, which led to the feature's initial removal.
Despite the patent dispute and the recent design change, studies suggest that the Apple Watch's blood oxygen measurement feature is generally accurate and comparable to medical-grade pulse oximeters. In fact, it has been found to have an average absolute difference of less than 1% in studies, making it a reliable tool for monitoring respiratory health conditions and general wellness, such as athletic performance or sleep quality.
However, it's important to note that there are nuances to consider. Research and FDA concerns have highlighted that pulse oximeters, including Apple's, may overestimate oxygen saturation in individuals with darker skin tones. Further study is needed to understand the impact of this issue on Apple's device specifically.
The blood oxygen measurement feature is not intended for medical diagnosis. However, the accessible SpO2 data can help users monitor conditions such as sleep apnea, asthma, pneumonia, or track exercise and altitude acclimation. It can provide valuable early insight or motivate consultation with healthcare professionals, enhancing personalized wellness management.
It's worth mentioning that the Apple Watch's sales boomed during the COVID pandemic, as people sought out wearable technology to monitor their health. The return of the blood oxygen measurement feature is likely to be welcomed by many users.
For users with older Apple Watch models or those purchased outside the U.S., the blood oxygen measurement feature will not be affected by these updates. These users will continue to have the original fully on-watch experience.
References:
- Apple Insider
- Johns Hopkins Medicine
- TechCrunch
- The Verge
- Bloomberg
- The resurfacing of the blood oxygen measurement feature on Apple Watch series 9, 10, and Ultra 2 models, following the release of iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1, exemplifies the dynamic intersection of technology and science in health-and-wellness applications.
- With the data analysis migrating to the paired iPhone's Health app, the AI-driven technology of the Apple Watch becomes a tool for collecting sensor data, highlighting the evolving role of software in health monitoring.
- The return of the blood oxygen measurement feature is not limited to respiratory health; it also offers insights into fitness-and-exercise performance and sleep quality, making it a comprehensive wellness solution.
- The integrated smart-home devices and various gadgets can further enhance personalized wellness management by aggregating and analyzing data, providing users with a comprehensive wellness picture.
- The resurgence of the blood oxygen feature underscores the growing consumer interest in wearable technology, as people prioritize health and wellness in their daily lives, underscoring the long-term impact of technology on health-and-wellness lifestyle trends.
