Apple Revives Blood Oxygen Feature, But Limitations Apply

Apple has reintroduced the Blood oxygen tracking feature for apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and apple Watch Ultra 2 users in the United States, but with a significant limitation. Announced on Thursday, the feature was previously restricted due to an international Trade Commission (ITC) ruling that banned the import of apple Watches with this capability in early 2024. apple has devised a workaround to comply with the ruling by processing blood oxygen data through the paired iphone, meaning users will not be able to directly view their blood oxygen levels on their apple Watch. Instead, they will need to access this information via the Respiratory section in the iPhone’s health app.

Apple clarified that a recent ruling from U.S. customs has allowed it to import apple Watches featuring the redesigned Blood oxygen capability. To utilize this feature, owners of Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 watches must update their devices to iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1.

It’s important to note that this updated feature is only available on apple Watches sold in the U.S. after january 17, 2024, when the ITC ban took effect. Devices sold prior to this date, as well as those bought outside the U.S., will retain the original Blood oxygen feature.

Apple is currently embroiled in a legal battle with Masimo, a medical device manufacturer that accused apple of stealing pulse oximetry technology during collaboration discussions. This dispute led to the ITC ruling resulting in the import ban, while apple has countersued Masimo over claims that its smartwatches resemble the apple Watch. As apple gears up for its upcoming iphone launch event, it is anticipated that the revamped Blood oxygen feature will play a crucial role in boosting apple Watch sales.

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