During its "Glowtime" event on September 9, Apple introduced the Apple Watch Series 10 and a new feature that detects sleep apnea. However, Apple can only actually launch this feature after it is approved by the FDA.
A recently updated medical device notice states that the FDA has approved “an over-the-counter device for assessing the risk of sleep apnea.”
While the information doesn't specifically mention the Apple Watch, it's the only device in Apple's lineup that offers this feature.
The device is called “Sleep Apnea Notification Feature” and Apple is the applicant. Apple applied for approval on April 4, 2024, and the FDA decision was made on September 13.
Sleep apnea detection will be available on Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Series 9, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. It will be released as a software update.
Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing becomes very shallow or stops repeatedly during sleep and is often diagnosed late.
Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a sleep study, in which a patient is monitored while sleeping in a clinic. This procedure is often expensive and not covered by insurance, so not everyone can afford it.
It is estimated that more than 1 billion people worldwide are affected by sleep apnea.
Apple Watch uses sensors to detect breathing disorders, based on the small movements of your wrist as you breathe. Every 30 days, Apple Watch analyzes the data and notifies users if there are signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea.
