Apple Watch Series 10 Lacks A Key Feature

The latest smartwatch from Apple has garnered significant attention thanks to its stylish redesign and the introduction of a sleep apnea detection feature. However, as the launch of the Apple Watch Series 10 approaches, it’s important to note that a major functionality will be absent: blood oxygen level monitoring.

Commonly referred to as SpO2 tracking, this feature has been a staple in Apple smartwatches since it was first introduced five years ago. Yet earlier this year, Apple received an order to halt the sale of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 within the United States, which are now sold without the blood oxygen tracking feature. This directive has now extended to the upcoming Apple Watch Series 10 as well.

For customers in the U.S., this means the Apple Watch Series 10 will not support the Blood Oxygen app. As noted in a footnote on Apple’s official Store page, “The ability to measure blood oxygen is no longer available on Apple Watch units sold by Apple in the United States beginning January 18, 2024. These are indicated with part numbers ending in LW/A.”

The issue stems from a patent dispute with a medical technology firm, Masimo, which has led to an ongoing legal battle over the blood oxygen sensor technology. Masimo alleges that Apple has infringed its patented wearable tech.

Reportedly, Masimo attempted to negotiate with Apple prior to the debut of the original Apple Watch, but the talks did not culminate in a deal. While the technology was under development back then, it only made its market debut with the Apple Watch Series 6.

A ruling from the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) found that Apple’s blood oxygen sensors violated Masimo’s patents, resulting in a temporary sales ban on affected Apple Watches in the U.S. Apple is actively working to appeal this ruling after being deemed to have partially infringed on Masimo’s patents.

At this point, it remains uncertain whether or when blood oxygen tracking will become available for the Apple Watch Series 10 in the U.S. The most likely path to reinstatement will depend on a favorable court decision for Apple.