Samsung enhances sleep apnea detection for Galaxy Watch and Ring

Samsung has announced an upgraded sleep apnea detection feature for its Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Ring wearable devices. Following approval from the South Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the new system utilizes artificial intelligence to provide more detailed respiratory monitoring.

Unlike previous versions that primarily indicated the presence of signs, the enhanced AI-driven algorithm calculates the frequency of breathing disturbances per hour. These disturbances are categorized into three levels: mild, occasional, or frequent. To utilize this feature, users must record at least two sleep sessions of at least five hours each over a ten-day period using the Samsung Health Monitor app.

The rollout in South Korea is scheduled to begin in November, initially supporting the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, Galaxy Watch 9, and Galaxy Ring. Subsequent software updates are expected to bring the functionality to the Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch 8. While the feature provides detailed monitoring, Samsung notes it is a wellness tool and not a substitute for a medical diagnosis.