During the recent iPhone 16 event, Apple showcased a range of new health features for the Apple Watch Series 10. However, the significant absence of the blood oxygen monitoring feature, which debuted with Series 6, left many users disappointed, especially in the United States. While international markets will gain access to this technology, U.S. consumers are left without it.
This exclusion of a key functionality undoubtedly stings, as health-related features have been central to Apple’s wearable technology strategy. The lack of the blood oxygen capability is attributed to Apple’s ongoing legal conflict with medical device firm Masimo, which has compelled Apple to deactivate this feature on both the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models last year.
Apple has not clarified whether the omission is due to hardware modifications in the Series 10 or if it’s merely disabled through software, similar to the previous Series 9 model. More clarity is expected once the smartwatch hits the market and teardown specialists assess its internal structure. If it’s a hardware change, Apple may have to produce distinct models for different regions.
Since the beginning of Masimo’s lawsuit, Apple has been actively defending its position. Earlier this year, after a key ban was reinstated, the company sought to implement a similar prohibition on Masimo’s Freedom health monitoring watch.
Despite the setback, Apple did announce some noteworthy new health features for the Series 10, including advanced sleep apnea detection technology that will be available worldwide.