Should You Get an Apple Watch?
Editor’s note: Due to a patent dispute with medical device maker Masimo, new Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2 units sold in the US no longer have the blood oxygen feature. Older models are unaffected. You can tell if you have a unit with the blood oxygen feature disabled if the part number ends in LW/A.
It used to be easy to pick an Apple Watch. All you had to do was choose whether you wanted the larger model or the smaller one. Then, Apple added optional cellular connectivity. Then, a more affordable Watch SE (now in its second generation) and, in 2022, the rugged Apple Watch Ultra (also now in its second generation). Suddenly, there are lots of options.
Now that Apple has released the Series 10, perfectly good older versions of the Apple Watch are getting discounted as retailers try to empty their inventory. You may also see more refurbished versions of these older models pop up. If you’re interested in more premium materials, like stainless steel, this is a great way to get a fancier version of last year’s watch. You won’t be missing out on too much, either. The past few years have seen iterative updates in terms of hardware — and the bulk of new features come from software updates. With that said, keep in mind that the latest version of watchOS, watchOS 11, doesn’t support the Series 4, 5, and first-gen SE.
Buying refurbished is one way that you may be able to upgrade from an older model without giving up blood oxygen. Due to a patent battle with Masimo, new Series 9 and Ultra 2 models sold in the US after January 18th, 2024, no longer have this feature. This is not a big deal for most people, but if that feature is important to you, older watches and Series 9 and Ultra 2 units sold by Apple before January 18th, 2024, still had the feature. (As do watches overseas. The ban only impacts US units.)
What About the New Series 10?
In a nutshell, it’s got a bigger screen, it’s about 10% thinner, and it’s lighter than previous models. It’s also got a new FDA-cleared sleep apnea detection feature. There are a ton of new colors and finishes, with titanium replacing stainless steel. All in all, it’s an iterative update but one we find meaningful in terms of readability and wearability.
Should You Get an Apple Watch?
So much choice can lead to analysis paralysis. But don’t worry. I’ve tested every single version of the Apple Watch you can buy right now — in addition to basically every other fitness watch and smartwatch on the market — and can steer you in the right direction.
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a new smartwatch, the Apple Watch is definitely worth considering. With its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and robust fitness tracking features, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-packed smartwatch.
FAQs
Q: What happens if I already have a Series 9 or Ultra 2 watch with blood oxygen feature?
A: If you already have a Series 9 or Ultra 2 watch with the blood oxygen feature, you won’t be affected by the patent dispute. You can continue to use the feature as usual.
Q: Can I still get the blood oxygen feature on a new Series 9 or Ultra 2 watch?
A: No, new Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches sold in the US after January 18th, 2024, no longer have the blood oxygen feature. If you want to get a new watch with this feature, you may need to look into older models or refurbished versions.
Q: Can I use Family Setup with an Apple Watch?
A: If your relative has an iPhone, you can use Family Setup, but you won’t be able to use features like irregular heart rhythm notifications, EKG, and health data sharing. If your relative doesn’t have an iPhone, Family Setup is a fine option, and you’ll get high and low heart rate notifications, walking steadiness, and fall detection.
