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Apple Watch Users: Blood Oxygen Levels Now Measurable, Viewable on iPhone

Apple Watch users can now measure their blood oxygen levels. But to see the results, you'll need to check your iPhone's Health app.

In this image we can see there is a mobile and a watch.
In this image we can see there is a mobile and a watch.

Apple Watch Users: Blood Oxygen Levels Now Measurable, Viewable on iPhone

Apple has released a software update, watchOS 11.6.1 and iOS 18.6.1, enabling blood oxygen level measurement on Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. However, users must update both their Apple Watch and iPhone to access this feature. The change comes after a patent dispute with Masimo, which led to an import ban on affected Apple Watch models.

Previously, blood oxygen measurement results were displayed directly on the Apple Watch. Now, users must view these results in the Health app on their iPhone. This shift is likely due to the ongoing patent dispute with Masimo, which specialises in pulse oximetry technology. Apple has been working on a software-based solution for over a year to circumvent the import ban.

Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 users cannot view blood glucose values directly on their watch. These readings must also be accessed through the Health app on the iPhone. This change is possibly due to medical data privacy concerns, display limitations, or integration with a comprehensive health record management system centralised on the iPhone.

With the latest software update, Apple Watch users can now measure their blood oxygen levels. However, they must view the results on their iPhone's Health app due to a patent dispute with Masimo. Apple has expressed disagreement with Masimo's charges and continues to work on a resolution.

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