Hey there, tech lovers! Today we’re diving into Apple’s latest move to make your Apple Watch even smarter (and more fun!).
Apple announced a new version of its Blood Oxygen feature, designed specifically for some recent Apple Watch models, including Series 8, Series 10, and the Ultra. This update means blood oxygen monitoring is making a comeback, but with a slick twist—it now works through your paired iPhone.
The new setup gets around previous import bans by having the device measure and calculate your blood oxygen levels on the iPhone itself. You can view your results in the Health app under the Respiratory section, but unfortunately, they won’t be displayed directly on the watch anymore.
This change comes thanks to a recent U.S. Customs ruling, allowing Apple to import watches with this feature once again. The update only affects watches sold after early 2024, when the import ban was imposed. If you bought an older model or one outside the U.S., you’re still out of luck for this update.
Alongside the technical upgrade, Apple is embroiled in legal battles with Masimo, a medical device company accusing Apple of copying its pulse oximetry tech. Despite this, the new feature is here—though with some legal wrangling still ongoing.