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topicnews · October 24, 2024

Apple is enabling sleep apnea detection for Apple Watch users in Canada

Apple is enabling sleep apnea detection for Apple Watch users in Canada

In September, Apple announced that sleep apnea detection was on its way to the Apple Watch, and now the feature is rolling out to many countries. Now Canada has officially been added to the list of places where Apple Watch users can access sleep apnea notifications.

Canada joins the list

Apple has rolled out sleep apnea notifications in over 150 countries, and Canada is now among the group, according to a new report. Since health-related features require regulatory approval in each country, Apple waited for approval from Health Canada before launching this new feature. After receiving approval in September, the feature is now available to users in the country. Sleep Apnea Detection debuted with watchOS 11 and is available on:

This feature uses the watch’s accelerometer to detect possible breathing disorders during sleep. To access sleep apnea notifications, make sure both your iPhone and Apple Watch are updated to iOS 18 and watchOS 11.

During its recent event, Apple introduced a new metric called Breathing Disturbances for the Apple Watch. This feature uses the accelerometer to track small wrist movements associated with interruptions in normal breathing patterns during sleep.

Every 30 days, Apple Watch analyzes this data and alerts users if it detects persistent signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea. This allows users to consult their doctors about next steps, including possible diagnosis and treatment options.

A screenshot of an Apple Watch notification about possible sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea alerts are now available in over 150 countries. | Photo credit – Apple

Just a heads up: In order to analyze your data, you must wear your Apple Watch while you sleep for at least 10 nights within 30 days. If you want to turn on sleep apnea notifications, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Health app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap Browse and then select Airways.
  3. Under Sleep Apnea Notifications, tap Set Up, then tap Next.
  4. Confirm your date of birth and whether you have ever been diagnosed with sleep apnea, then tap Next.
  5. Finally, tap Next and then Done.

Extending health features like this to more people around the world is always a win for me. Additionally, it gives people even more reasons to upgrade their Apple Watch or grab their first one. However, remember that although the health data from a smartwatch is useful, it is not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Always consult a doctor instead of relying solely on the device.

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