Hajra Naz
Apple announced Thursday that it’s rolling out a redesigned Blood Oxygen feature for select Apple Watch models—including some Series 8, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra units. The update effectively reinstates blood oxygen monitoring, but in a manner that circumvents the International Trade Commission’s (ITC) import ban.
In the new version, blood oxygen readings are processed on the user’s paired iPhone, rather than directly on the watch. The results will appear in the Respiratory section of the Health app on the iPhone. This means users won’t see the data on the watch itself—they’ll have to check their phone instead.
Apple says the change was made possible by a recent U.S. Customs ruling, which allows the company to import Apple Watches with the redesigned feature.
Read More: Your Smartwatch Might Be Wrong About Your Stress Levels, Study Finds
This tweak won’t affect older watches sold before the ban or models purchased outside the United States. It applies only to watches sold after the ITC import ban took effect in early 2024. Eligible users will get access to the redesigned feature through an Apple Watch and iPhone software update rolling out on Thursday.
The move is the latest development in Apple’s ongoing legal battle with medical device maker Masimo. Masimo claims Apple stole its pulse oximetry technology after talks about a potential partnership fell apart.
In 2023, Masimo won a case at the ITC that blocked imports of Apple Watches with the original blood oxygen monitoring feature. The commission ruled that Apple’s technology infringed Masimo’s patents, forcing Apple to remove the feature from its devices.
Apple has since counter-sued Masimo, accusing the company of copying Apple Watch features for its wearables. The tech giant has also appealed the ITC’s import ban.
