Samsung takes a new major step in the field of connected health by deploying its sleep apnea detection feature on the Galaxy Watch range (series 4 and later) in 34 European countries. With this launch, the service is now available in 70 markets worldwide, thereby strengthening the brand’s promise: to provide everyone with the means to monitor their health daily, directly from their wrist.
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An extensive geographical coverage
Previously limited to a few regions, the “Sleep Apnea Detection” feature is now supported in most of Europe: France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Sweden, Portugal, Austria, Finland, and 24 other member states. This extension adds to other non-EU countries such as Australia and Singapore, bringing the total to 70 markets approved by the CE mark and the FDA.
For users, this means the possibility of benefiting from a first level of screening for nocturnal respiratory disorders without leaving their home or investing in specialized medical equipment.
Operating principle and limitations
The watch relies on Samsung’s BioActive sensor, which combines:
- an optical sensor for oxygen saturation (SpO₂);
- a accelerometer measuring micro-awakenings and movements characteristic of respiratory interruptions.
By analyzing two consecutive nights of sleep of at least four hours each, the algorithm calculates a sleep apnea index (AHI). If the result exceeds a predefined threshold, the user receives an alert recommending consultation with a healthcare professional.
It should be noted, however, that this feature remains an alert tool and does not replace a polysomnography or specialized medical care. Measurements can be affected by external factors (wrist position, voluntary movements, loss of sensor contact) and should not be used as a definitive diagnosis.
Activation steps on your Galaxy Watch
To enjoy sleep apnea detection, make sure you meet the following conditions:
- A Galaxy Watch4 or later model running Wear OS 5+
- A Samsung Galaxy smartphone running Android 12+
- The Samsung Health Monitor app up to date
Once these prerequisites are met, open the app, go to the “Sleep Apnea Detection” section and activate the option. Then wear your watch for two consecutive nights; the results will be displayed in the morning, on your wrist and in the mobile app.
Other health functions of the Galaxy Watch
Besides apnea detection, Samsung has integrated many features for comprehensive health monitoring:
- Continuous heart rate monitoring, with alerts in case of abnormal tachycardia or bradycardia.
- ECG (electrocardiogram) medically validated in several countries, allowing detection of signs of atrial fibrillation.
- Stress monitoring thanks to heart rate variability and guided breathing exercises.
- Continuous SpO₂ measurement: useful for monitoring saturation, especially for athletes and people at respiratory risk.
- Menstrual cycle tracking to anticipate risk periods or premenstrual symptoms.
- Sleep quality analysis (duration, deep, REM, light sleep phases) to help you adopt better habits.
These tools, combined with apnea detection, make the Galaxy Watch a comprehensive health companion — even though, once again, they do not replace professional medical advice.
Why this advancement is significant
Sleep apnea affects about 10% of the adult population and can lead to serious complications (hypertension, cardiovascular disorders, cognitive impairments). Yet, less than half of patients are diagnosed outside hospital settings. By providing an accessible self-monitoring solution, Samsung contributes to awareness and early detection, a key factor in directing users to specialized consultation.
At a time when telemedicine and remote monitoring are developing, this technology fits perfectly into the trend of more proactive health care, where the patient plays an active role in their daily monitoring.
Ultimately, the Galaxy Watch is gradually becoming a mobile health station. With sleep apnea detection now available in France and 33 other European countries, along with many other biometric functions, it sets a very high bar for wearables. Feel free to check if your watch is compatible and explore these features to better understand and improve your health, night after night.
FAQ – Activating sleep apnea detection
What are the prerequisites to use the feature?
You must have a Galaxy Watch4 (or later) running Wear OS 5+ paired with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone running Android 12+. Install and update the Samsung Health Monitor app to the latest version both on your watch (via Galaxy Wearable) and on your phone.
How to activate detection directly from my watch?
1. On the Galaxy Watch, open the Samsung Health Monitor app.
2. Select Sleep apnea.
3. Read the warnings and swipe up to tap Continue.
4. Tap the switch to activate the feature, then confirm with OK.
5. Wear your watch for two consecutive nights (at least 4 hours each) to start the measurement.
Can the feature be activated from the phone?
1. Launch the Samsung Health Monitor app on your Galaxy smartphone.
2. Open the Sleep apnea tab.
3. Activate the switch and accept the on-screen precautions by tapping Continue twice then OK.
4. The feature is immediately ready; just wear the watch at night.
Are there tips to optimize measurement reliability?
• Place the watch snugly above the wrist bone.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, or sleeping pills before the monitoring session.
• Sleep at least 4 hours per night for two consecutive nights.
• Results display automatically upon waking, then the feature deactivates to avoid disrupting your daily life.
