The summer of 2024 was a game-changer for consumer wearables in the sleep health space. With the release of both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and the Apple Watch 10, sleep apnea detection has taken center stage in the latest generation of smartwatches. Each device now offers its own unique approach to identifying sleep apnea, allowing users to gain deeper insights into their health—all from the comfort of their own beds.
While KONK has already reviewed the Galaxy Watch 7 for both healthcare providers and consumers, it’s time to turn the spotlight on Apple’s latest release. The Apple Watch 10 brings its own FDA-approved sleep apnea detection technology to the table. But how does it compare to the Galaxy Watch 7? Below, we break down the key features and differences between these two advanced wearables and what users need to know if they suspect they may have sleep apnea.
How the Apple Watch 10 Detects Sleep Apnea
The Apple Watch 10 uses its built-in accelerometer to detect potential sleep disturbances. By tracking movement patterns during sleep, the watch correlates significant activity—such as tossing and turning—with the respiratory pauses and subsequent awakenings often seen in sleep apnea. If the device detects frequent disturbances over a 30-day period, it flags the wearer as being at high risk for sleep apnea and sends a notification. This approach is particularly useful for those who want a less invasive way to monitor their sleep patterns over time.
How It Compares to the Galaxy Watch 7
Unlike the Apple Watch 10, the Galaxy Watch 7 relies on its pulse oximeter to detect sleep apnea. The pulse oximeter measures oxygen levels in the blood by analyzing light refraction through the wearer’s skin. If the watch detects significant drops in oxygen on at least two nights within a 10-day period, it indicates a higher risk of sleep apnea. While the Apple Watch 10 takes a full month to gather data, the Galaxy Watch 7 can identify potential issues in just a few nights, making it a faster option for early detection.
What to Do If Your Watch Indicates Sleep Apnea Risk
If the Apple Watch 10 flags you as high risk for sleep apnea, it’s important to share this information with a healthcare provider. Your doctor might recommend a follow-up overnight sleep study to confirm the diagnosis, or they may review your symptoms and medical history through validated clinical questionnaires. Regardless, having an FDA-approved device provide preliminary data can be an empowering first step toward getting the treatment you need.
Get Ahead of Your Sleep Health with the Latest Smartwatch Technology
The Apple Watch 10 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 are revolutionizing the way we approach sleep health by making sleep apnea detection more accessible than ever. If you suspect you might have sleep apnea, these devices can provide valuable preliminary data to share with your doctor. Explore your options, stay proactive, and take control of your sleep health today!