The health monitoring capabilities of smartwatches have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, with blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring emerging as a particularly valuable feature for fitness enthusiasts and those with respiratory conditions. However, Apple Watch users in the United States continue to face a significant limitation, as the blood oxygen monitoring feature remains disabled due to an unresolved patent dispute with medical technology company Masimo.
The Legal Battle Continues
The dispute between Apple and Masimo dates back to the introduction of blood oxygen sensing with the Apple Watch Series 6 in 2020. Masimo sued Apple, claiming the feature infringed on its pulse oximetry patents. In early 2024, following a ruling by the US International Trade Commission (ITC), Apple was forced to disable the SpO2 feature on new Apple Watch models sold in the United States to avoid an import ban. Rather than licensing Masimo's technology, Apple opted to appeal the ITC's ruling, a process that continues today with no resolution in sight.
Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Feature Timeline
- 2020: Feature introduced with Apple Watch Series 6
- Early 2024: Feature disabled on new US models following ITC ruling
- April 2025: Feature remains disabled with no resolution in sight
- 2028: Potential expiration of Masimo's relevant patents
Affected Apple Watch Models in US
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Apple Watch Series 10
- Future models (likely including Series 11)
Available Alternatives with Blood Oxygen Monitoring
- Samsung Galaxy Watches
- Google Fitbit devices
- Garmin watches
- Oura Ring
Impact on Current and Future Apple Watch Models
The ongoing legal battle has significant implications for Apple Watch users in the US. The blood oxygen monitoring feature remains disabled on all new Apple Watch Series 9, Ultra 2, and Series 10 models sold in the country since January 2024. While the physical sensor hardware is still present in these devices, the software functionality has been deactivated. According to recent reports from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, this situation is unlikely to change anytime soon, with the feature not expected to return in time for the anticipated Apple Watch Series 11 launch this fall.
Options for Resolution
Apple faces several potential paths to restore blood oxygen monitoring to its US watches. The company could win its appeal against the ITC ruling, reach a settlement with Masimo, or develop an entirely new blood oxygen sensing technology that doesn't infringe on Masimo's patents. However, none of these solutions appear imminent. Some industry observers note that Apple might simply wait until Masimo's patent expires in 2028, though this would mean a prolonged absence of the feature in the US market.
Competitive Disadvantage
The continued absence of blood oxygen monitoring creates a notable gap in Apple's health tracking capabilities compared to competitors. Samsung's Galaxy Watches, Google's Fitbit devices, Garmin watches, and other wearables like the Oura Ring all offer SpO2 tracking in the United States. This disparity is particularly striking given Apple's emphasis on health features and reported plans to expand into health-focused subscription services.
Consumer Considerations
For consumers, the implications are clear. Anyone purchasing a new Apple Watch in the US should be aware that blood oxygen monitoring will not be available, despite being a standard feature on comparable devices. Existing Apple Watch owners who previously had access to the feature should also note that if their device requires replacement under warranty or AppleCare+, the replacement unit will likely have the SpO2 function disabled due to the ongoing sales restriction.
Looking Ahead
While blood oxygen monitoring remains sidelined, Apple is reportedly working on other health innovations for future Watch models. These may include blood pressure monitoring capabilities and AI-powered health coaching features. However, the unresolved patent dispute with Masimo represents a significant obstacle in Apple's health-tracking strategy, especially as competitors continue to offer comprehensive health monitoring solutions without similar restrictions.
