Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Feature Returns via iOS 18.6.1 Update

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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.

Apple Watch

Affected Models & Update Requirements

AspectDetails
Affected ModelsApple Watch Series 9, Series 10, Ultra 2
Required iOSiOS 18.6.1 on paired iPhone
Required watchOSwatchOS 11.6.1 on Apple Watch
Processing LocationiPhone (not on watch)
Data AccessHealth 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.

Apple watch blood oxygen 2

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:

  1. Update iPhone to iOS 18.6.1
  2. Update Apple Watch to watchOS 11.6.1
  3. Use Blood Oxygen app on watch
  4. View results in iPhone’s Health app

Important Notes:

  • iPhone required for data processing
  • International models remain unchanged
  • Original blood oxygen models unaffected
Apple watch blood oxygen 3

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.

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