Controversial Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Monitoring Feature Set to Return
The Apple Watch’s blood oxygen monitoring feature, once embroiled in controversy over patent infringement claims, appears poised for a comeback, with reports suggesting a workaround and potential future reinstatement. Here’s the latest scoop.
Controversial Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Monitoring Feature Set to Return
In a legal tussle, health device maker Masimo accused Apple of patent infringement related to pulse oximetry, prompting Apple to disable the blood oxygen monitoring feature on Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 devices sold in the U.S. While the feature remains active on devices sold outside the U.S., its absence has sparked curiosity and debate among users.
Masimo contended that a mere software fix wasn’t sufficient, demonstrating a workaround by pairing one of the affected Watches with a jailbroken iPhone running an older iOS version. While this workaround temporarily revived the feature, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection deemed Apple’s actions adequate to avoid patent infringement.
Apple has lodged an appeal, aiming to potentially restore the feature via a software update for affected Watches. Another possibility lies in the expiration of the Masimo patent in August 2028, paving the way for Apple to reintroduce the feature. However, a settlement between Apple and Masimo to license the capability remains uncertain, as discussions between the two parties have yet to take place.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is eager to reinstate the feature without licensing fees, likely necessitating negotiations or legal proceedings, which could extend into later this year. While the timeline for the feature’s return remains uncertain, users may anticipate updates as developments unfold.
However, resorting to jailbreaking iPhones and utilizing outdated software, though a potential workaround, poses security risks and is not recommended. Stay tuned for further updates on the Apple Watch blood oxygen monitoring feature’s status, as the saga continues to unfold amidst legal intricacies.
Pokdepinion: Regardless of how it resurfaces, I hope it provides some level of accuracy with its readings. Otherwise, we’re going to have a lot of unnecessary health scares across the globe.
