In a significant development, Apple Inc. is reinstating the blood oxygen tracking feature on its popular smartwatch in the United States. This restoration follows a protracted legal battle that lasted for several years, ultimately culminating in a favorable ruling for the tech giant.
The blood oxygen tracking feature was initially removed from the Apple Watch at the end of 2023. This decision came in response to a patent infringement lawsuit filed by Masimo Corp., a company specializing in noninvasive monitoring technologies. Additionally, a US Customs injunction contributed to the removal of this sought-after feature, which allowed users to monitor their blood oxygen levels conveniently from their wrist.
On Thursday, Apple announced that the blood oxygen tracking capability will be re-enabled for Apple Watch owners who previously purchased models with the feature disabled. This move is made possible due to a recent ruling by US Customs, which has cleared the way for Apple to bring back a feature that many users have come to rely on for their health monitoring.
The return of the blood oxygen tracker is expected to enhance the user experience for many Apple Watch owners. This feature plays a crucial role in helping users track their health metrics, offering insights that can be vital for overall wellness. As health technology continues to evolve, the availability of such features becomes increasingly important for consumers seeking to manage their health proactively.
With the reinstatement of the blood oxygen tracking feature, Apple is reaffirming its commitment to providing innovative health solutions through its devices. Users can look forward to utilizing this feature once again, making the Apple Watch an even more valuable tool for health management.