Apple Watch Blood Oxygen (SPO2) Tracking Returns to US via Software Update

Blood Oxygen Tracking Returns to US Apple Watches

• 💡 Blood oxygen saturation (SPO2) tracking is now available again in the US for Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2.
• 🚀 This feature's return is due to a recent US customs ruling, resolving a patent dispute with Masimo.
• ✅ Previously, new Apple Watches sold in the US were restricted from offering this feature, but now it can be enabled via a software update for existing devices.

How to Enable SPO2 Tracking

• 💻 First, update your iPhone to iOS 18.6.1 or later and your Apple Watch to watchOS 11.6.1 or later.
• ⌚ After updating, open the Blood Oxygen app on your Apple Watch, which will guide you through onboarding steps for taking a reading.
• 📊 Your blood oxygen saturation readings can then be viewed in the Health app on your iPhone.

Key Differences in the New Blood Oxygen App

• ⚠️ The redesigned Blood Oxygen app on the Apple Watch does not display the reading directly on the watch after it's taken.
• 📱 Users must navigate to the Health app on their iPhone to view the results of a blood oxygen measurement.
• 🧐 This differs from older Apple Watch models where the result was shown on the watch itself immediately after the reading.

Beta Software Considerations

• ⚠️ The blood oxygen feature has not yet rolled out to watchOS 26 beta users at the time of filming.
• 🗓️ It is anticipated that this feature will be included in a future public release, possibly around the time of the public beta to production transition in September.
• ⚠️ Users experimenting with beta software should proceed at their own risk, as compatibility and functionality may vary.