Blood oxygen monitoring is returning to the Apple Watch, albeit in a modified form. As of today, Apple is rolling out a software update that enables a redesigned blood oxygen feature for the Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2. This update cleverly circumvents the import ban imposed by the International Trade Commission, ensuring users can still access vital health data.
- Blood oxygen monitoring returns to Apple Watch.
- Feature redesigned to bypass import ban.
- Data measured on paired iPhone instead.
- Affects Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2 models.
- Legal dispute ongoing with Masimo.
- Masimo's patents set to expire in 2028.
Starting from 2025-08-14 17:00:00, the blood oxygen data collected will now be processed on the paired iPhone, rather than directly on the watch. While users won’t see the data on their wrist, they can conveniently access it through the iPhone’s Health app. This change applies only to watches sold after January 17, 2024, leaving earlier models unaffected.
This development raises questions about how companies navigate legal challenges while maintaining user experience. Will this workaround set a precedent for future tech innovations? Consider the following implications:
- Users can still monitor health metrics despite legal restrictions.
- Apple’s legal battles could influence future tech patent laws.
- Competitors may need to rethink their strategies in light of Apple’s adaptability.
As Apple continues to adapt and innovate, users should stay informed about updates that enhance their health monitoring capabilities. Will you upgrade to the latest watchOS to take advantage of these features?
