19:42Machine-translated from Azerbaijani by AIRead in Azerbaijani
Samsung Updates Galaxy Ring’s Sleep Apnea Feature in the US
Following the FDA’s authorization in July, Samsung has launched its updated sleep apnea detection feature for the Galaxy Ring in the US. According to the company, it is the first smart ring with such a feature to be authorized by the FDA without requiring a doctor’s prescription. The feature uses artificial intelligence to measure how many breathing disturbances occur during each hour of sleep. This can provide users with additional insight into why they wake up tired despite sleeping through the night.
The FDA first granted De Novo authorization for this feature on the Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Ring in February 2024. This procedure applies to products that have not previously been available on the market and do not pose a risk to users’ health. The initial version detected only signs of moderate and severe sleep apnea. The updated system can also indicate mild, occasional and frequent cases.
To obtain a result, users must sleep for at least 2 nights within a 10-day period and for a minimum of 5 hours each night. The feature works in the Samsung Health Monitor app and requires a compatible Galaxy phone. The service is intended for people over the age of 18, but it is not suitable for those who have previously been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Samsung notes that only a doctor can make a definitive diagnosis.
The feature is currently also available on the Galaxy Watch 9 running Wear OS 7.0 or later. The Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch 8 will receive it through future software updates. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, which appeared on the list announced in Korea, was not mentioned during the US announcement. Samsung also says the Galaxy Ring’s lightweight design makes it suitable for wearing throughout the night.
Although competing devices from Oura and Superhuman track nighttime disturbances, their sleep apnea detection features have not been authorized by the FDA. Both devices only record nighttime disturbances that may be a possible sign of the condition. A legal dispute between Samsung and Oura over smart ring patents is also ongoing. A preliminary ruling in the case is expected soon.
The updated feature has also been approved in South Korea. Samsung has also updated its Sleep Coaching feature, which provides advice on sleep habits. The service can now provide recommendations after collecting less data than the previous version. The company believes that findings related to medical risks could help users have more productive conversations with their doctors.