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Why does the Apple Watch advertise health apps and then take them off.

II am writing to express my disappointment and concern regarding the advertising for the Apple Watch 10. The promotional materials highlighted advanced health features such as Blood Oxygen, sleep apnea detection, and pulse monitoring, which significantly influenced my decision to upgrade from my Apple Watch 7.

However, after upgrading, I discovered that:

  1. The Blood Oxygen feature no longer available.
  2. The Pulse app, which I have used for years without extra charges, now requires payment.

While I understand that some features may involve third-party apps, the pricing model for the Pulse app is extremely misleading. The app is labeled "free," yet users are prompted to pay for various subscription tiers, including:

  • In-App Purchases ranging from $4.99 to $69.99
  • Multiple versions of "Premium" subscriptions with unclear distinctions
  • Annual subscription options at vastly different price points

This approach not only feels deceptive but also diminishes the trust I have in Apple's commitment to transparency. I upgraded my device under the impression that these core health features would be seamlessly accessible, as presented in the advertising.

I would like clarification on the following:

  1. Why has the functionality of previously included features, like Blood Oxygen monitoring, changed?
  2. Why does the advertising fail to disclose the potential for additional costs associated with these health-related apps?
  3. Are there plans to address these concerns and improve transparency in advertising for current and future Apple products?

I believe many other loyal Apple customers may share similar frustrations, and I hope this feedback is taken seriously. I look forward to your response and a resolution to these issues.

Apple Watch Series 10, 11

Posted on Nov 15, 2024 6:10 AM

Reply
1 reply

Nov 15, 2024 6:40 AM in response to maud177

Apple Support Community is a public discussion forum for fellow Apple users to assist each other and share tips and solutions. Apple hosts the community, but is not a participant and will never read your post. If you would like to leave feedback for Apple please use the link below.


Feedback - Watch - Apple


Apple lost (but is appealing) a federal court case that resulted in Apple not being permitted to import after January 18, 2024 any Watches with Blood Oxygen features that infringe on the patents.


The court decision was widely reported for over a month between December 2023 and January 2024. Apple discontinued advertising the feature and ads contain a disclaimer specifically acknowledging the lack of blood oxygen monitoring.


Apple is not the developer of the Pulse app. It is developed by an independent business. Apple has little to no control over the pricing structure and changes a third party imposes on their products.


Third party apps have been available ever since the Apple App Store opened in 2009/2010. The pricing has always been available before a purchase or trial is started. If you’re dissatisfied with the product or the charges the app developer charges you’ll need to address your concerns directly to them.

Why does the Apple Watch advertise health apps and then take them off.

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