Apple has shared news about a big software update for its newest watches in the U.S. This new Apple Watch Blood Oxygen update brings back a key health tool. It is for new users of the Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models. This update is big news for the company, as the feature was unavailable for a time due to a legal issue. The new tool will be ready through a software update later today.
This restored feature, for instance, works in a new way. The watch’s sensors still measure the data from your wrist. The paired iPhone, however, now does the final math. Users can then see their results in the Health app’s Respiratory section.
The change is a direct result of a recent U.S. Customs ruling. It importantly affects only certain U.S. models sold without the original feature. On the other hand, this does not affect older watches. It also does not apply to any devices sold outside the U.S.
How the New Watch Blood Oxygen Update Works
To get the redesigned Blood Oxygen feature, users must first update their devices. This process requires, for example, updating the paired iPhone to iOS 18.6.1. The Apple Watch itself, in addition, needs to be updated to watchOS 11.6.1. Once both devices are running the latest software, the new feature will become available.
The main change in this version is how the system processes your health data. The powerful sensors on the back of the Apple Watch still perform the actual measurement. They gather all the needed information directly from your wrist as before. The key difference, however, is that the watch no longer does the final calculation.
The watch instead securely sends the raw sensor data to your paired iPhone. The iPhone’s powerful processor then takes over and calculates your blood oxygen level. As a result, you can view the final, calculated results in the Health app on your iPhone. The data appears neatly organised in the app’s Respiratory section for easy access.
U.S. Availability and Context for the Update
This update is specifically for certain users in the United States. It applies to the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models. The new feature is for users of these models who do not currently have the Blood Oxygen tool enabled. This rollout is a direct result of a recent U.S. Customs ruling on the matter.
It is important to note that the update does not affect all users. There will be no impact, on the other hand, to watches bought before the change that already include the feature. If your device has the original Blood Oxygen tool, nothing will change. The update also does not apply to any Apple Watch units purchased outside of the U.S..
Apple emphasized that it continues to focus on industry-leading health and wellness tools that are grounded in science. These watches, for instance, still offer many other powerful health features. Users still have access to the ECG app, irregular rhythm notifications, and Fall Detection to help live a healthier life.
