Apple Watch launches sleep apnea detection feature in China

Apple has launched a sleep apnea notification feature for Apple Watch users in China via an over-the-air system update. The feature has been approved by the National Medical Products Administration as a Class II medical device.

The tool is compatible with Apple Watch Series 9, Ultra 2, SE 3, and subsequent models. It is intended for adults aged 18 and older who have not been previously diagnosed with sleep apnea. Instead of using blood oxygen levels, the technology utilizes high-range accelerometers to detect subtle wrist movements and identify irregular breathing patterns during sleep.

Users undergo a 30-day evaluation period. If the device is worn for at least 10 nights and the respiratory disturbance index exceeds a specific threshold on more than half of those nights, the system sends a notification. Data can be reviewed in the Health app on iPhone or iPad, and users can export PDF reports for medical consultations. Apple emphasizes that this is a screening and risk warning tool and is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment.