Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Monitoring Returns to the US
Apple Watch users in the United States finally have reason to celebrate: the Apple Watch blood oxygen feature is officially returning. After months of legal and technical setbacks, Apple has confirmed that the popular health-monitoring tool will be restored through the latest software updates. Many users have been waiting eagerly for this update, which now allows Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 owners to access accurate blood oxygen readings directly from their devices. This post explains how the update works, why it was paused, and what Apple Watch users can expect moving forward.
How the Redesigned Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Feature Works
The updated blood oxygen monitoring feature on the Apple Watch has been redesigned to improve accuracy and usability. Instead of performing calculations entirely on the watch, sensor data from the Blood Oxygen app is now sent to a paired iPhone for processing. Once the calculations are complete, users can view the results in the Respiratory section of the Health app. This new approach not only streamlines the measurement process but also ensures that readings are reliable and easy to interpret. Whether you’re tracking daily wellness or monitoring your oxygen levels during workouts, this redesign makes the experience seamless.
Which Apple Watch Models Will Get the Update
The blood oxygen feature will return with iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1. Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models purchased in the United States will all receive the update. Users with earlier models or those who bought Apple Watch devices internationally are unaffected, as their blood oxygen monitoring capabilities remain unchanged. It’s important for users to ensure their Apple Watch and iPhone are updated to the latest versions to access the feature. Once updated, the process is automatic, and users can resume tracking their oxygen levels without interruptions.
Why the Blood Oxygen Feature Was Paused in the US
The temporary absence of blood oxygen monitoring in the United States was due to a legal dispute with health technology company Masimo. The conflict reached a peak when U.S. Customs implemented an import ban in December 2023, preventing Apple from selling certain Apple Watch models with the feature. As a result, Apple had to pause sales briefly and later resumed selling the Series 9 and Ultra 2 without the blood oxygen capability. The new update follows a recent U.S. Customs ruling that clears the way for the feature’s return. Legal proceedings between Apple and Masimo are ongoing, but for now, Apple Watch users can once again enjoy full health tracking functionality.
What Apple Watch Users Can Expect Going Forward
With the blood oxygen feature restored, Apple Watch users in the United States can track their wellness with confidence. The redesigned system not only provides accurate readings but also integrates smoothly with the Health app, making it easy to monitor trends over time. Fitness enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, and those managing respiratory conditions will benefit from having consistent access to their oxygen levels. As Apple continues to refine health monitoring tools, users can expect future updates to further enhance accuracy and usability, keeping the Apple Watch at the forefront of wearable health technology.
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