Who uses O2 sensor?

[KFridman]

I'm considering a refurbished AWU. I was thinking I'd like the AWU 1 for the O2 sensor. Then I got to wondering how much I'd really pay attention to it. I have it on my AW 6 but rarely look at it. I also have a Garmin Fenix 7. That has it. It takes a few more steps to use it. But, I rarely check it there either. Am I the odd man out? I've seen comments where some people won't buy another watch until the sensor is back. I'd like to know if this thing really gets that much attention.

 

[GlenK]

Depends on how you are physically. I have heart issues and pay attention to it carefully. Some people I know that don't hardly pay any intention to it at all.

My first AW was a 7 and it had it, replaced that one with a 9 and it has it. So I'll stick with the 9 until they get this worked out. Heard it may be 2028.

 

[BugeyeSTI]

I use apps that log and track trends in heart rate, SPo2, breathes per minute, etc. so my watch uses it many times in a 24hr period..

 

[Howard2k]

Everyone outside the US uses it, it’s collecting data. I never need to look at it but I’m glad that it’s trending all the same.

 

[Bichon]

Judging by the number of threads on this topic, you'd think the ability to measure oxygen saturation on the Apple watch was its most valuable feature. I suspect it's mostly that people are unhappy that a feature they once had has been taken away.

The only time I've ever tracked my SpO2 was when I had COVID19, and even then I discovered it was faster to clip on my fingertip pulse ox than to take a reading with the watch.

 

[Momof2.1107]

I have sleep apnea, so the SpO2 sensor is beneficial for me. I have an Ultra 1 and in November purchased an Ultra 2 from their old stock that still had the sensor activated. I should be good until 2028, or until the ban is dropped.

 

[MarkX]

I don't see it as a feature that is all that important!

Don't use it and never will.

 

[JPack]

Apple's own expert witness testified in court that the global profit generated by the SpO2 feature in the Series 6 and 7 Apple Watches amounted to $34 million. This is from the current Masimo/Apple trial.

So it's not a huge deal for most people. Same reason why it's likely Apple will wait until 2028 for patent expiry.

 

[KFridman]

Hey everybody - thanks for all the feedback. I guess if I had some health issues where it would come in handy I'd get a watch with the sensor or have the battery in my AW6 replaced and go with that. But, I've decided just to go with the latest AWU 2. Appreciate the input.