APPLE TO RESTORE BLOOD OXYGEN MONITORING ON SELECT U.S. WATCH MODELS VIA SOFTWARE UPDATE

Apple is preparing to bring back the blood oxygen monitoring feature to certain Apple Watch models in the United States through an upcoming watchOS software update, partially reversing a high-profile restriction that has been in place since January.

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The decision follows a months-long standoff over a patent dispute that forced the company to temporarily disable one of the device's most recognizable health features for U.S. buyers. The feature will return to Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models sold domestically, though Apple has reportedly modified the underlying technology to avoid infringing on patents held by medical technology company Masimo. The ITC (U.S. International Trade Commission) had previously ruled in Masimo's favor, leading to a halt in sales of certain models until Apple could release updated versions with the blood oxygen capability removed. Units sold outside the United States were unaffected and retained full functionality.

THE BACKSTORY: A PATENT BATTLE WITH WIDE IMPACT

The conflict between Apple and Masimo centers on pulse oximetry, a technology used to measure the oxygen saturation level in the blood. Masimo claims that Apple's implementation directly copied its patented methods for using specific light wavelengths and sensor configurations to produce accurate readings.

In late 2023, the ITC issued an import ban on Apple Watches that included the contested technology. Apple responded by temporarily pulling the affected models from its U.S. online store and retail locations during the holiday season—a move that drew significant attention due to the timing and the popularity of the Apple Watch.