Apple Watch Users Rejoice: Blood Oxygen Monitoring Returns
Apple has recently unveiled a software update that restores the long-awaited blood oxygen level measurement feature for the Apple Watch. This enhancement will be available on the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, adn Ultra 2 models once users upgrade both their iPhones and smartwatches to the latest versions.
How to Access Blood Oxygen Monitoring
To regain access to blood oxygen monitoring on compatible Apple Watches, users must install watchOS 11.6.1. This update is currently being rolled out in the United States. Additionally, it’s essential for users to also update their iPhones to iOS 18.6.1, which has been released at the same time.
This time around, there’s a significant change in how users can view their blood oxygen levels. Instead of checking directly on their watch screens as before, they will now need to open the Health app on their iPhones for this details. the reason behind this shift is that Apple has moved the processing of data from the smartwatch itself to its paired iPhone due to an ongoing patent dispute regarding pulse oximetry technology.
According to Apple’s instructions: “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.” For other models not impacted by this legal issue, readings will still appear directly within their respective apps on-screen.
The Legal Hurdles Behind This Update
Previously, owners of various Apple Watches could easily monitor their blood oxygen saturation levels right from their wrists without any hassle. Though,due to a patent conflict with Masimo—a company specializing in medical technology—Apple faced significant challenges that led them to disable this feature after extensive legal disputes and an import ban imposed by U.S authorities.
This import ban took effect back in December 2023; despite some temporary relief during negotiations or appeals processes, it forced Apple into a position where they had no choice but to deactivate these features across affected devices sold within U.S borders.
The company has publicly disagreed with Masimo's claims against them following two separate lawsuits filed by Masimo targeting apple's use of certain technologies related specifically tied into health monitoring capabilities found within its watches.
A Surprising Delay in Implementation
Interestingly enough though—while facing these challenges—Apple began developing a software-based solution shortly after receiving news about ITC rulings against them concerning these patents issues surrounding pulse oximetry tech used inside its wearables products like watches or fitness trackers alike! It raises eyebrows why it took over eighteen months before finally rolling out such an alternative method enabling functionality again!
The Future Looks Bright for Health Tracking Features
This recent advancement signals hope not only for current owners but also potential buyers looking forward towards future iterations featuring enhanced health tracking capabilities! As more advancements come along through updates like these ones announced today—it becomes clear how committed companies are towards improving user experiences while ensuring compliance with regulations set forth by governing bodies overseeing intellectual property rights!
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