Samsung is bringing an improved version of its sleep apnea detection feature to several Galaxy wearables this November, offering users a more detailed look at breathing disturbances while they sleep.

The upgraded feature uses an AI-powered algorithm to analyse the number of breathing disturbances per hour, going beyond the basic detection system Samsung first introduced in 2024. Rather than simply identifying potential signs of sleep apnea, the new version provides a more detailed breakdown of breathing irregularities, giving users a clearer picture of what happens during the night.

According to Samsung, users will need to record at least five hours of sleep on two separate occasions within a 10-day period for the feature to generate results. While the additional detail could help users better understand their sleeping patterns, Samsung stresses that the technology is not intended to replace a professional medical diagnosis.

The enhanced detection feature will initially be available on the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Ring, with the rollout beginning in South Korea in November following approval from the country’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. The technology has also received FDA approval in the US, although Samsung has yet to confirm an exact release date for American users.

Owners of older Galaxy watches won’t necessarily be left out either. Samsung plans to bring the upgraded feature to the Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch 8 through a future software update, provided the devices are running Wear OS 7.0 or later.

The announcement builds on Samsung’s existing sleep apnea detection technology, which first received FDA approval in 2024 and was designed to alert users to potential signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. The original feature will remain available on supported devices, including the Galaxy Watch 4 and newer models, even after the enhanced version begins rolling out.

For Galaxy Watch and Ring users, the update should offer more useful information about their sleep health without requiring additional hardware, although anyone experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea will still need a proper medical assessment.