Major Update Brings Blood Oxygen Tracking Back to Select Apple Watch Models

Apple Watch owners in the United States now have a compelling reason to upgrade their devices. Following a recent legal victory, Apple has introduced a redesigned Blood Oxygen feature to certain models, including the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. These watches had previously been restricted from offering blood oxygen monitoring due to ongoing legal disputes.

Legal Resolution Unlocks New Capabilities

Thanks to a recent ruling by U.S. Customs authorities, users of these Apple Watch models will soon regain access to blood oxygen measurement functionality. The notable twist? Instead of processing the data directly on the watch, measurements will now be calculated on the paired iPhone, providing a seamless user experience while adhering to legal constraints.

How the New Blood Oxygen Monitoring Works

• Open the Blood Oxygen app on your Apple Watch.
• Take a reading as usual.
• The measurement data is sent to and processed by your iPhone.
• Results are displayed in the Respiratory section of the Health app.

This arrangement allows users to continue tracking their oxygen saturation levels for fitness, wellness, and high-altitude activities, despite restrictions on on-device processing.

Steps to Enable the Updated Feature

To activate the new blood oxygen monitoring system, follow these steps:

1. Ensure your device has the latest software update installed.
2. Restart both your iPhone and Apple Watch to apply changes.
3. Open the Blood Oxygen app on your Watch and take a measurement.

Remember, all measurements are stored securely in the Health app, regardless of whether they are taken on demand or in the background.

Additional Tracking and Customization Options

You can filter your blood oxygen readings to view data collected during specific periods, such as sleep or in high-elevation environments. This helps in analyzing patterns over time and gaining deeper insights into your health and wellness.

Implications for Users and Apple’s Commitment to Health Features

If you’ve been unable to access blood oxygen tracking due to legal restrictions, this update signifies a significant step forward. It provides valuable insights into your oxygen saturation levels, which can be particularly useful during workouts, outdoor adventures, or for overall health monitoring.

It’s important to note that the Blood Oxygen app is intended for general wellness purposes only. It is not a medical device and should not be used for diagnosis or medical advice. Apple recommends that users are at least 18 years old when using this feature.

Beyond Blood Oxygen: Other Health and Safety Features

Models like the Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 offer a suite of health-related tools, including irregular rhythm notifications, electrocardiogram (ECG), sleep apnea alerts, fall detection, temperature sensing, and mindfulness applications. These features collectively enhance the overall health monitoring experience on Apple Watch.

Learn More and Share Your Thoughts

For additional information about the Apple Watch and its health features, visit Apple’s official health page. Apple’s efforts to adapt and maintain health tracking capabilities despite legal hurdles demonstrate its commitment to user wellness and innovation.

Do you believe Apple’s approach is a clever workaround, or should the company push harder to restore native on-device blood oxygen monitoring? Share your opinion with us at CyberGuy Contact Page.

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Ethan Cole

I'm Ethan Cole, a tech journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind innovation. I write about emerging technologies, startups, and the digital trends shaping our future. Read me on x.com