Overview

• Apple released iOS 18.6.1 and watchOS 11.6.1 updates that re-enable the Blood Oxygen feature on Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 units sold in the United States.
• The redesigned app lets the watch collect raw sensor data while a paired iPhone performs calculations and delivers both on-demand and background blood oxygen readings in the Health app.
• U.S. Customs approved the software workaround, enabling Apple to restore the feature without altering watch hardware or violating the ITC import ban.
• Units sold before the ban or purchased outside the United States retained the original Blood Oxygen functionality and remain unaffected by the new update.
• Apple’s appeal of the ITC’s patent infringement ruling continues at the Federal Circuit, leaving the feature’s long-term availability subject to the court’s decision.