Can your smartwatch detect sleep apnea?
Some smartwatches, like Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch, can screen for potential signs of sleep apnea, but only a doctor can diagnose the condition. The article explains which devices and features are available.
Sleep apnea is a serious disorder where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep. While a formal diagnosis requires medical testing, certain smartwatches can help screen for signs, prompting users to seek professional evaluation.
Apple Watch models from Series 9, Ultra 2, and SE 3 feature a sleep apnea notification system that uses the accelerometer to detect breathing disruptions consistent with moderate-to-severe sleep apnea. To receive a notification, users must wear the watch for at least 10 nights within a 30-day period. Results are categorized as "Elevated" or "Not Elevated." The feature has FDA clearance.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and newer offer a similar feature, but it only works with Galaxy phones. It requires just two nights of sleep tracking within 10 days, with at least 4 hours of sleep each night. After results are generated, the feature automatically turns off. Samsung's sleep apnea feature received FDA De Novo authorization in 2024.
Withings ScanWatch, a hybrid smartwatch, tracks breathing disturbances but is not marketed as a sleep apnea notification tool. It does have FDA clearance for tracking breathing disturbances, but unlike Apple and Samsung, it does not provide direct sleep apnea alerts.
Other wearables, such as Garmin and Oura Ring, log breathing variations during sleep but lack FDA clearance and are not promoted as sleep apnea screening tools. Fitbit and Whoop track nighttime respiratory rates but also have no FDA-cleared sleep apnea features.
Regardless of what a smartwatch suggests, only a doctor can confirm a sleep apnea diagnosis. Users experiencing symptoms like persistent fatigue should consult a healthcare professional.
