Apple has successfully restored blood oxygen monitoring to affected Apple Watch models in the US following a favorable US Customs ruling. The feature returns through a clever workaround that processes data on paired iPhones instead of the watch itself.
Table of Contents
Affected Models & Update Requirements
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Affected Models | Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, Ultra 2 |
| Required iOS | iOS 18.6.1 on paired iPhone |
| Required watchOS | watchOS 11.6.1 on Apple Watch |
| Processing Location | iPhone (not on watch) |
| Data Access | Health app’s Respiratory section |
How the Workaround Functions
The restored blood oxygen feature operates differently than before. Sensor data from the Blood Oxygen app on Apple Watch will be measured and calculated on the paired iPhone, and results can be viewed in the Respiratory section of the Health app.
This approach cleverly circumvents the ITC ban that forced Apple to disable the feature due to patent infringement issues with Masimo. The US Customs ruling enabled this solution.
Background: The Patent Dispute
The International Trade Commission banned blood oxygen monitoring on recent Apple Watch models after finding patent infringement. This affected US users specifically, while international users retained full functionality.
Apple’s response demonstrates how wearable technology companies navigate complex patent landscapes while maintaining user access to health features.
User Experience Changes
New Process:
- Update iPhone to iOS 18.6.1
- Update Apple Watch to watchOS 11.6.1
- Use Blood Oxygen app on watch
- View results in iPhone’s Health app
Important Notes:
- iPhone required for data processing
- International models remain unchanged
- Original blood oxygen models unaffected
Health Monitoring Implications
This restoration maintains Apple Watch’s position in health tracking devices, ensuring users retain access to vital health metrics despite patent complications.
The workaround, while requiring additional steps, preserves functionality that many users depend on for wellness monitoring.
FAQs
Do I need an iPhone to use blood oxygen monitoring now?
Yes, the feature now requires a paired iPhone running iOS 18.6.1 for data processing.
Will international Apple Watch models be affected by this change?
No, international models and original blood oxygen-enabled watches remain unchanged.
