Apple added, “These steps include introducing a version of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 in the United States without the Blood Oxygen feature. There is no impact to Apple Watch units previously purchased that include the Blood Oxygen feature. Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 without the Blood Oxygen feature will become available from apple.com starting 6 am PT on January 18, and from Apple Stores starting January 18.”
Apple didn’t mention if it plans on reducing the price of the affected watches since the pulse oximeter will be disabled. Anyone who tries to use it on an Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Watch Ultra 2 model purchased tomorrow will see a message that says, “The Blood Oxygen app is no longer available. Learn more in the Health app on your iPhone.”