Apple started its big reveal of the Series 6 Watch with a close up on its newest sensor: a pulse oximeter, which measures blood oxygen levels. Even though the company did not mention the coronavirus in its presentation of the new sensor, the measurement tool is a sign of the times. Perhaps nothing has put the measurement of blood oxygen saturation more front and center than COVID-19.
Because the disease puts a strain on the respiratory system, tracking oxygen levels has become crucial, particularly for more severe cases of the coronavirus. The market has responded accordingly. Sales of at-home pulse oximeters grew 500% during the pandemic, according to Reportlinker. It’s no wonder that it’s showing up in the Apple Watch now.
The sensor uses red, green, and infrared LED lights to measure oxygen saturation in the blood. Its algorithm is designed to detect blood oxygen between 70% and 100%. Average blood oxygen levels are around 95% with 90% being…
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Source : fastcompany.com
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