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# The Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Controversy: What Transpired and Its Implications for Users
Toward the end of 2023, Apple encountered an unforeseen challenge that disrupted its smartwatch offerings in the United States. Following a legal battle with medical tech firm Masimo, Apple had to stop selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 — its high-profile models — due to a patent infringement verdict concerning blood oxygen monitoring technology.
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) concluded that Apple had breached two of Masimo’s patents, resulting in an import prohibition. Although Apple initially ceased sales and anticipated a possible intervention from the Biden administration, the Presidential Review Period expired on Christmas Day without any veto. Thus, Apple had to abide by the ITC’s ruling.
While Apple momentarily resumed sales after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit placed a hold on the import ban, the court ultimately rejected Apple’s request by mid-January 2024. Consequently, the sale of Apple Watch models featuring blood oxygen monitoring was once again restricted in the U.S. starting January 18, 2024. To keep offering its latest models, Apple disabled the blood oxygen capability for new Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 units sold in the U.S.
Now, over a year later, the blood oxygen functionality remains absent from newly sold Apple Watches in the U.S., and Apple has provided no updates regarding its reintroduction.
## How Crucial Is Blood Oxygen Monitoring to the Apple Watch?
Apple introduced the blood oxygen monitoring feature with the Apple Watch Series 6 in 2020, coinciding with the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This capability enabled users to assess their blood oxygen saturation (SpO₂) levels — a crucial measure of respiratory and overall health.
In contrast to the FDA-cleared ECG feature on the Apple Watch, the blood oxygen sensor was positioned as a wellness tool rather than a medical instrument. Apple stressed that the readings were considered “good-to-know information” and should not replace professional medical guidance or diagnoses.
Despite this framing, blood oxygen monitoring rapidly gained popularity, especially among fitness aficionados and health-conscious individuals. Applications like Gentler Streak utilize blood oxygen data alongside sleep tracking to produce daily readiness scores, aiding users in determining their preparedness for exercise and recovery.
The lack of this feature in new Apple Watches sold in the U.S. is particularly striking for users depending on detailed health data to inform their fitness and wellness practices.
## Why Hasn’t Apple Reinstated the Feature?
As reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has opted — at least for the time being — not to pursue additional legal action or attempt to redesign the blood oxygen feature to bypass Masimo’s patents. Gurman notes that while Apple frequently positions itself as a pioneer in wearable health technology, its choice not to restore blood oxygen monitoring could influence consumer perceptions, particularly among those contemplating an upgrade from older models.
As the world’s most valuable company, Apple undoubtedly possesses the financial means to either settle the legal conflict or create a workaround. Nevertheless, its current approach appears to involve patience, possibly waiting for future product cycles or legal changes before addressing the matter.
Notably, the ban on blood oxygen monitoring only impacts new Apple Watch units sold following the ruling. Existing owners who acquired their devices before the ban can continue utilizing the blood oxygen feature without interruption.
## What Lies Ahead for Apple Watch Users?
Currently, U.S. consumers purchasing a new Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 will discover that the blood oxygen monitoring capability is disabled. However, international users still have access to this feature, as the ban pertains solely to the United States.
Looking forward, Apple may eventually launch new health functionalities or redesign current ones to retain its competitive position in the wearable market. However, unless a settlement occurs or a new workaround is developed, blood oxygen monitoring may continue to be absent from U.S. Apple Watches for the foreseeable future.
In the interim, users who prioritize blood oxygen tracking might need to explore alternative devices or continue using older Apple Watch models that include the feature.
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