Samsung Electronics and Stanford University jointly announced a research project with Stanford Medicine to initiate an innovative health solution based on Samsung’s obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) feature,^1, which has received De Novo — the first of its kind authorization — by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In recognition of World Health Day, this project underscores the importance of sleep in overall health by taking further steps in proactive care, beginning with a pioneering study. smartwatch Sleep Apnea Detection 

Led by professor Robson Capasso as principal investigator and professor Clete Kushida as co-principal investigator, the joint study is designed to explore potential ways to further enhance Samsung’s Sleep Apnea feature to better support sleep health through timely interventions. Looking ahead, efforts will focus on going beyond detection by leveraging AI technology for daily monitoring to sleep apnea management, empowering users with the best possible sleep tools to improve their health.

Samsung’s Sleep Apnea feature on the Galaxy Watch,² which detects signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, previously received authorization by the US FDA following approval by Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). With its latest approval by Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), the feature will become available to users in Brazil in late April, increasing availability to 29 markets globally. The Sleep Apnea feature will continue to be expanded to more countries around the world, allowing more people to proactively spot symptoms earlier, which help prevent further long-term OSA health-related complications.

“The ethical, equitable and evidence-based use of technology, after its validation through research is crucial in developing new approaches to detection and management of sleep apnea and other serious sleep-related health conditions,” said Robson Capasso, MD, FAASM, Chief of Sleep Surgery, Professor of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, former Associate Dean of Research, Stanford University School of Medicine.

“We are excited about this groundbreaking collaboration and proud to be initiating a study utilizing smartwatches, a friendly and commonly accepted wearable.”

“This collaboration with Stanford Medicine will combine our deep technological expertise with Stanford’s leading research capabilities to unlock new innovation in preventive care,” said Dr. Hon Pak, Senior Vice President and Head of the Digital Health Team, Mobile eXperience Business, Samsung Electronics.

“Together, we aim to move beyond screening to also provide more meaningful daily support that helps people better understand and manage their sleep health.”

Samsung isn’t the only brand with apnea detection; several smartwatches offer features aimed at detecting signs of sleep apnea:

• Apple Watch Series 10, Series 9, and Ultra 2: These models utilize the watch’s accelerometer to monitor breathing disturbances during sleep. If consistent signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea are detected over 30 days, the device notifies the user. This feature has received FDA clearance and is available in over 150 countries, including the U.S. and EU.​
• Withings ScanWatch: This hybrid smartwatch incorporates a sensor that measures blood oxygen saturation levels to identify sleep apnea episodes. It also includes an ECG tool and monitors various workouts and exercises. ​
• Fitbit Devices: Models like the Fitbit Versa 3, Versa 4, Sense, and Sense 2 offer snore detection features. While snoring can sometimes indicate sleep apnea, these devices do not provide a formal diagnosis. ​

It’s important to note that while these smartwatches can detect potential signs of sleep apnea, they are not substitutes for professional medical diagnosis. If you receive notifications or have concerns about sleep apnea, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis.

¹ The Sleep Apnea feature is an over-the-counter (OTC), software-only, mobile medical application operating on a compatible Samsung Galaxy Watch and Phone. This feature is intended to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in the form of significant breathing disruptions in adult users 22 years and older over a two-night monitoring period. It is intended for on-demand use. This feature is not intended for users who have previously been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Users should not use this feature to replace traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment by a qualified clinician. The data provided by this device is also not intended to assist clinicians in diagnosing sleep disorders.
² Availability may vary by market, carrier, model, or a paired smartphone. Available on Galaxy Watch4 series and later models. The watch requires the Wear OS 5.0 version or later and must be paired with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone with Android 12.0 or later.