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Apple’s patent-related change concerns Blood Oxygen on some Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 units in the United States—not every watch in those model families. To check your watch, confirm its model, where and when it was purchased, whether it already has the original Blood Oxygen feature, and whether its paired iPhone and watch have the software versions Apple specifies.
Which Apple Watch models are affected?
Apple’s August 14, 2025 announcement describes a redesigned Blood Oxygen feature for some U.S. users with an Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, or Ultra 2 that currently does not have Blood Oxygen. The model name alone does not determine eligibility.
Apple says previously purchased watches that include the original Blood Oxygen feature are unaffected. It also says Apple Watch units purchased outside the U.S. are unaffected. The announcement does not give a serial-number or part-number lookup method for identifying an individual unit. Apple’s August 14, 2025 update
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How to check your specific watch
- Identify the model family. Check whether the watch is a Series 9, Series 10, or Ultra 2. These are the model families Apple names for the redesigned U.S. feature.
- Check where and when the unit was purchased. Establish whether it was purchased in the U.S. and whether it previously included the original Blood Oxygen feature. Apple says units purchased outside the U.S. and previously purchased units with the original feature are unaffected.
- Check whether Blood Oxygen is currently available. Apple describes the redesigned feature as applying to users whose watch currently does not have Blood Oxygen. Do not assume availability based only on the model family.
- Check the paired devices’ software. Apple specifies iOS 18.6.1 on the paired iPhone and watchOS 11.6.1 on the watch for access to the redesigned version.
- Confirm where results appear. With the redesigned workflow, the watch gathers sensor data, while the paired iPhone measures and calculates it. Results appear in the Health app’s Respiratory section.
What changed in the redesigned Blood Oxygen feature?
The redesigned workflow moves measurement and calculation to the paired iPhone rather than presenting the experience as the original Blood Oxygen feature on the watch. The watch still gathers sensor data, and the results are shown in Health under Respiratory. Apple attributed the redesigned feature’s U.S. availability to a recent U.S. Customs ruling. Apple Newsroom
#1 Best Overall
- ACCURATE AND RELIABLE - Accurately determines your SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation levels), pulse rate and pulse strength in 10 seconds and displays it conveniently on a large digital LED display.
- FULL SPO2 VALUE - The ONLY LED pulse oximeter that can read and display SpO2 up to 100%.
- SPORTS/HEALTH ENTHUSIASTS - For sports enthusiasts like mountain climbers, skiers, bikers, and anyone needing to monitor their SpO2 and pulse rate. The pulse oximeter LED display faces the user for an easy read.
- ACCOMODATES WIDE RANGE OF FINGER SIZES - Finger chamber with SMART Spring System. Works for ages 12 and above.
- LOADED WITH ACCESSORIES - Includes 2 x AAA BATTERIES, allowing the pulse oximeter to be used right out of the box; a SILICONE COVER to protect from dirt and physical damage; and a LANYARD for convenience. Comes with a 12-month WARRANTY and USA based technical phone support.
Why is there a patent-related change?
The change sits within a dispute between Apple and Masimo over wearable blood oxygen measurement technology. A March 19, 2026 Federal Circuit opinion recounts that the International Trade Commission found a Section 337 violation involving specified Masimo patent claims and issued a limited exclusion order against infringing Apple Watches.
The opinion also notes that the Commission instituted a proceeding on November 14, 2025, to consider whether a redesigned watch should also be barred. It says the order under appeal remained in effect during that proceeding; it does not establish the proceeding’s eventual outcome. Federal Circuit opinion, March 19, 2026
Rank #2
- LARGE EASY-TO-READ DISPLAY: Bright screen clearly shows SpO2, pulse rate, and signal strength with large digits. The waveform bar graph provides visual confirmation of pulse strength, making it ideal for adults and users who prefer clear visibility.
- PORTABLE & USER-FRIENDLY: Compact, lightweight design fits easily in your pocket or bag. One-button operation makes it simple for anyone to use—just insert your finger and press the button for instant results. Auto power-off preserves battery life.
- PERFECT FOR EVERYDAY & OUTDOOR USE: Great for checking oxygen and pulse levels at home, during workouts, hiking, skiing, or high-altitude trips. A practical tool for fitness lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to keep an eye on their daily wellness.
- COMPLETE PACKAGE INCLUDED: Comes with 1x Pulse Oximeter, 2x AAA Batteries , 1x Lanyard for easy carrying, and 1x Instruction Manual. Ready to use right out of the box—no additional purchases needed.
Checking a used or retail watch before buying
For a specific unit, ask the seller or Apple to confirm its purchase market, whether it previously had the original Blood Oxygen feature, and what feature is currently available. Apple’s cited announcement does not provide a serial-number or part-number rule that conclusively classifies a watch, so a shared model name or product listing is not enough to establish the feature state of the unit you will receive.
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Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Accurate and Reliable - The Innovo iP900AP Finger Pulse Oximeter is a premium model with an improved LED and sensor, allowing SpO2 and pulse rate measurement even at low blood perfusion. Consistently beat other pulse oximeters in clinical studies
- Plethymosgraph and Perfusion Index - Ensure accurate SpO2 and Pulse Rate readings. Eliminate doubts about reliability or reading issues.
- Upgraded Hardware and Software - Enhanced performance with internal upgrades. iP900AP model includes auditory alarm, pulse detection beeps, and adjustable display brightness.
- Sports Enthusiasts, Aviation or Home Use - Ideal for climbers, skiers, bikers, aviators, and on-the-go SpO2 and pulse rate tracking. Use pre or post-exercise. Remain still during measurement
- Ready to use out of the box - Include 2x AAA batteries and a lanyard for convenience.
Rank #3
- ACCURATE AND RELIABLE - Accurately determine your SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation levels), pulse rate and pulse strength in 10 seconds and display it conveniently on a large digital LED display.
- SPORTS/HEALTH ENTHUSIASTS - For sports enthusiasts like mountain climbers, skiers, bikers, and anyone needing to monitor their SpO2 and pulse rate. The pulse oximeter LED display faces the user for an easy read.
- EASY TO USE – Simply insert your finger fully into the chamber, press the power button, and keep your hand still. Movement can affect accuracy. Wait a few seconds for the device to stabilize and display your results.
- ACCOMODATES WIDE RANGE OF FINGER SIZES - Finger chamber with SMART Spring System. Works for ages 12 and above.
- LOADED WITH ACCESSORIES - Include 2X AAA BATTERIES that will allow you to use the pulse oximeter right out of the box for convenience. Comes with 12 months WARRANTY and USA based technical phone support.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
