Apple restored blood oxygen measurement capabilities to affected smartwatch models after finding a legal workaround. The International Trade Commission previously blocked these functions on Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 devices due to patent disputes with Masimo. US Customs provided a favorable ruling that enabled Apple to reactivate the feature through software modifications. Users must install iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1 updates to access the restored functionality.
The redesigned system processes sensor data differently than before. Apple Watch devices collect measurements while paired iPhones perform calculations. Health app users can view results within the Respiratory section after completing the update process. International purchases and earlier models with original blood oxygen features remain unaffected by these changes. This solution represents Apple's response to regulatory challenges while maintaining health monitoring services for American consumers.
The redesigned system processes sensor data differently than before. Apple Watch devices collect measurements while paired iPhones perform calculations. Health app users can view results within the Respiratory section after completing the update process. International purchases and earlier models with original blood oxygen features remain unaffected by these changes. This solution represents Apple's response to regulatory challenges while maintaining health monitoring services for American consumers.
